Best non-toxic air fryer: Is YOUR air fryer toxic? Our expert recommends these models to minimise exposure to harmful plastic and chemicals
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Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for many households in the UK because they're quick, convenient and crisp up food really well.
However, as more consumers become aware of the potential health and environmental hazards associated with certain cookware materials, questions about whether all air fryers are safe have become more prominent, making it even more important to choose right air fryer for you.
The term non-toxic air fryer has gained popularity among the health-conscious who want to minimise their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, which while understandable, isn't always that easy.
The Ninja Crispi has glass cooking containers with removable non-stick trays
Choosing to buy a non-toxic air fryer reflects a growing desire to ensure that the materials used in cooking the surfaces that food touches and the coatings do not leach chemicals, degrade under heat or release fumes.
This is even more important if you use your air fryer everyday or cook for children or people with sensitivities. Opting for less chemical heavy materials can give greater peace of mind, especially if you're planning on using your air fryer for big family meals or even cooking your Christmas dinner in the air fryer.
Can air fryers really be non-toxic?
If used correctly, all air fryers are technically non-toxic.
When many of us call an air fryer non-toxic, we generally mean that it avoids materials and coatings linked to chemical leaching or degradation under normal cooking conditions.
The cooking basket or tray should be made from materials that are stable under cooking temperatures, such as stainless steel, uncoated metal trays, ceramic-coated baskets or borosilicate glass.
If a coating is used, it should be free from problematic chemicals, in particular PFAS (a broad name for forever chemicals that don't break down) including PTFE (Teflon) or precursors like PFOA.
Every air fryer in non-toxic when used correctly but a stainless steel tray minimises risk
Any plastics used for the external housing should be food-safe, preferably BPA-free, heat-stable plastics and should not be used for surfaces in direct contact with food or exposed to high heat.
So, can an air fryer really be non-toxic? Yes, but only if the brand avoids PFAS/PTFE coatings and uses safe materials like ceramic, stainless steel, glass or uncoated metal.
If this criteria is met and the fryer is used within recommended temperature ranges and cared for properly, the risk of chemical leaching or fume emission is low.
Best non-toxic air fryer: Quick list
- Best for small homes: Ninja Crispi glass air fryer
- Best for the style conscious: Our Place Wonder Oven
- Best capacity: Cuisinart 17L air fryer oven
- Best value: Tower Xpress PRo 5in1
How we test
I've been testing air fryers for over seven years. In that time, I've tested dozens of different models, from compact glass air fryers to larger classic, basket-style fryers.
While none of the air fryers I recommend would be considered dangerous or toxic under the right environments, I do understand the growing desire to move away from cooking with traditional non-stick materials than, if damaged, can leach chemicals in food.
Is your air fryer as safe as it could be? We put some top models to the test
For this roundup I've looked at air fryers that use minimal non stick trays and coatings that would potentially scratch and or peel, and get into food. This means a lot of glass and stainless steel.
As well as making sure the materials are as chemical-free as possible. I'm also testing cooking performance by using them at home, as well useability. There's no point buying a non-toxic air fryer if it doesn't last.
Best non-toxic air fryers
1. Best for solo/small homes: Ninja Crispi glass air fryer
Read our round-up of the best Ninja air fryers for more models I recommend.
2. Best for the style conscious: Our Place Wonder oven
3. Best capacity: Cuisinart Air Fryer Oven
4. Best value: Tower Xpress Pro 5in1
FAQs
How to minimise exposure in your current air fryer
If you’re worried that the non-stick on your current air fryer might be damaged or at risk of it, there are a few things you can do to mini the risk of exposure to any nasties
- Buy new inserts for your current air fryer
- Consider using a heat-safe glass dish inside the basket
- Use food friendly liners
- If the tray isn’t already scratched, invest in some non-toxic, non-scratch cleaning tools
General tips for keeping your air fryer safe to use
Maintaining the safety of your air fryer involves proper care with everyday use. This helps preserve the integrity of the materials, prevent chemical degradation and ensures the air fryer continues to operate correctly.
Clean the basket and tray after each use
Oil and food buildup can cause overheating, smoke and faster breakdown of non-stick coatings. Allow the basket to cool fully, then wash it with warm water and a non-abrasive sponge to prevent scratches. You can also used a dedicated air fryer cleaner if you wish.
Read more about the best way to clean an air fryer in our dedicated guide.
Properly cleaning your air fryer is key to keeping it safe to use
Avoid metal utensils inside the basket
Metal tools can scratch coatings or damage ceramic linings, increasing the likelihood of wear and potential leaching. Opt for silicone, wooden or heat-safe plastic utensils.
Do not exceed the recommended temperature
Air fryers should only be used within the manufacturer’s specified heat limits. Excessive temperatures may cause PTFE coatings to degrade more quickly or cause stress to ceramic finishes.
Check the coating regularly
If the interior coating begins to peel, chip or bubble, it is time to replace the basket or the entire appliance if spare parts aren't available. Damaged coatings are less stable under heat.
Could something dangerous be lurking inside your air fryer? Regular checks keep it safe
Allow for ventilation
Air fryers require good airflow around the appliance. Position it on a flat, heat-resistant surface and keep the vents unobstructed to prevent overheating.
Use lightly oiled parchment when needed
If sticking is a problem and your model uses a non-stick coating, parchment paper can minimise direct abrasion. Ensure it is weighed down with food and does not contact the heating element.
Avoid aerosol cooking sprays
Propellants used in aerosol oils can degrade coatings more quickly. Use pump spray bottles or apply oil with a brush if needed.
Read more about the common air fryer mistakes you might be making in our guide to using an air fryer.
Are air fryers safe?
Air fryers are widely considered safe for use at home, as long as they are good quality and looked after properly. Modern models will adhere to updated manufacturing regulations and avoid materials that are now considered problematic
However, safety comes from both the materials and how you use your air fryer. Non-stick coatings that rely on PTFE might deteriorate if overheated or scratched, which can affect the integrity of the coating.
Most modern air fryers are considered non-toxic
High temperature cooking in general can also generate by-products such as acrylamide. This is not specific to air fryers though and occurs across all high heat cooking methods.
What’s more, most air fryers can’t reach temperatures high enough to cause damage with heat alone.
Choosing models with stable, non-reactive materials and using them within recommended temperature limits helps minimise potential risks.
Are Ninja air fryers non toxic?
Many Ninja models sold in the UK feature ceramic coated baskets and crisper plates that are free from PFAS, including PTFE and PFOA. These models are generally considered a better option for those seeking non-toxic alternatives.
Some older or entry level models may still use PTFE based non-stick coatings. For this reason, it is advisable to verify the materials used in the specific model you plan to purchase. Look for confirmation that a model is ceramic coated, PFAS free or stainless steel.
Ninja air fryers are considered non-toxic but the Crispi is the best of the bunch
What materials should you avoid
When choosing a non-toxic air fryer, you might want to avoid certain materials.
These include:
PTFE and other PFAS based non-stick coatings
Although safer than older formulations, PTFE remains a synthetic polymer that can break down under extreme heat or when its surface is damaged.
Unknown or undisclosed non-stick coatings
If a manufacturer does not explicitly state that their coatings are PFAS-free or ceramic, it is better to assume they're not.
Low grade plastics exposed to heat
Plastics should never sit inside the basket or be exposed directly to heat. Look for BPA-free plastics used only in parts far from the heating element.
Materials considered less chemical heavy include stainless steel, uncoated metal, ceramic coatings that are PFAS free and borosilicate glass.
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