Teflon is also known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in more scientific terms. Because of its excellent self-lubrication properties, Teflon is used as a nonstick surface for many kitchen products.
Similarly, some air fryers also use it to prevent food from sticking to the basket. If you’re reading this article, you must have one question: whether your air fryer has Teflon or not.
Yes, air fryers have Teflon. The coating can be found on the included accessories like the grill pan and basket.
However, ever since word got out that Teflon can be harmful to health, consumers have been trying to avoid air fryers. Therefore, manufacturers are trying to come up with Teflon-free air fryers, but some air fryers still have it.
Where can Teflon be found in an air fryer?
Teflon can be found as a protective nonstick covering on some air fryer baskets or other air fryer accessories such as a grill pan. It can be found on the metal liner that goes into a traditional bucket air fryer.
Oven-style air fryers have metal racks and thus don’t need any nonstick covering or Teflon.
Here’s why people want to avoid Teflon
Perfluorooctanoic Acid is a chemical that is in Teflon and is said to pose a health risk. Although brands have removed PFOA from Teflon, the debate still exists. Teflon can sometimes chip and end up getting in your food.
Some people don’t want to risk eating it accidentally and thus try to avoid Teflon altogether.
The temperature at which Teflon becomes harmful
Teflon releases toxic chemicals at a temperature of 570 degrees Fahrenheit or 300 degrees Celsius. Air fryers don’t usually reach a temperature as high as this, but consumers still want to steer clear of this toxic substance.
Some alternatives to Teflon air fryers
Air fryers with ceramic-based coating or with stainless steel baskets are better alternatives. Oven-style air fryers are also great since they have metal racks and don’t need a nonstick covering.
Air fryers that don’t use Teflon/PTFE
As mentioned above, you can opt for ceramic baskets or stainless steel baskets. Here are some of the alternatives you can opt for:
- MaxiMatic EAF-05SS Air Fryer
- Philips HD9641/96 2.75 Quart
- Philips Premium TurboStar 1.8lb/2.75qt Airfryer
- NUWAVE Brio Air Fryer Smart Oven
- Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven Airfryer, Stainless Steel
What to do if your air fryer has Teflon/PTFE
Already have an air fryer with Teflon and don’t have the budget to buy a new one? Here’s how you can use your air fryer without the Teflon having any bad impact on your health:
- Don’t use Teflon at high temperatures. Used at medium to low temperatures, Teflon will not have any negative effect. Most air fryers only get close to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and Teflon gets harmful at 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Don’t preheat your air fryer.
- If your basket is lightweight, it will heat up way quicker, so be more cautious.
Final verdict on whether air fryers have Teflon
Teflon/PTFE has been (rightfully) getting a ton of hate for the past few years. It can be harmful to health if not dealt with caution. However, air fryer companies are now considering the hazard of Teflon and creating Teflon-free air fryers too. So, it’s a win-win situation!