Experts Warn: Why Air Fryers Might Not Be the Best Replacement for Your Oven
Over the past few years, air fryers have become a must-have in modern kitchens.
Promising crisp, fried-like results with little to no oil, they’ve steadily replaced older appliances like slow cookers for many households.
While air fryers are a healthier alternative to deep frying, experts are now cautioning that they shouldn’t completely replace traditional ovens—and not all foods are suited for this trendy appliance.
For example, broccoli tends to come out bland and dry compared to roasting or steaming in a conventional oven. But that’s just the beginning.
According to culinary experts, some foods could even be dangerous in an air fryer. Popcorn is one of them.
Why? The kernels can easily get stuck in the appliance’s heating elements, increasing the risk of fire, reports The Mirror.
Wet batters—like those used for fried chicken—are another no-go. While deep frying creates that golden, crispy coating we love, air fryers simply don’t get hot enough to set the batter properly. The result? A soggy, disappointing mess.
Even when it comes to saving energy and money, experts advise caution. Martin Lewis, a well-known financial expert, explained during an appearance on This Morning:
“Air fryers are good for small things that cook quickly. But if you’re going to have to use your air fryer 15 different times for different items, generally, on energy usage, you’d be better off using an oven.”
He also pointed out that microwaves might be the cheapest option for certain foods, like baked potatoes, compared to air fryers or ovens.
Steven Kipling of Which? echoed this view, noting that while air fryers save time for small meals, they lack the space of a full-sized oven.
“If you’re cooking for a family or making large meals, the oven or hob may still be the most economical choice,” he added.
Still, many devoted air fryer fans don’t want to give them up. One commenter joked, “I’m not listening to him on this—I’ll even air fry a cup of tea!”
So, are air fryers worth it? Absolutely—for quick, small meals and snacks.
But when it comes to larger meals or certain foods, traditional ovens still hold their place in the kitchen.
👉 What do you think? Do you rely on your air fryer daily, or do you still prefer using the oven?
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