Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages of Air Fryers

Q. I’ve been hesitant about the whole air fryer trend, but my friends can’t stop raving about theirs. Should I consider getting one? AJ, York

A. Interesting dilemma! There’s quite a divide on our food desk regarding air fryers. My colleague, Hannah Evans, swears by them, while I’m a bit more cautious.

Essentially, air fryers function as compact yet powerful convection ovens. They heat up faster and are generally more energy-efficient compared to traditional ovens, though they come with some limitations in terms of capacity. If you’re cooking for just one or two people frequently and often reheat food, an air fryer can be a great choice. They’re also a useful option for those seeking a healthier cooking method since they require significantly less oil than deep frying.

On the other hand, if you typically prepare meals for a larger group or prefer cooking from scratch, air fryers may not be as practical. While there are larger models available now, the cost efficiency tends to diminish as size increases. Research from Uswitch indicates that a small air fryer operates at a cost of 22p-54p per hour, while a large air fryer costs between 49p-76p, and conventional electric ovens range from 54p to £1.35.

When considering an air fryer, also remember to take the purchase price into account (with models ranging from £30 to £300) and evaluate whether you have sufficient counter space for an appliance of this size.

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