An increase in cases of Teflon Flu, caused by emissions from overheated nonstick cookware, has raised concerns about air fryer safety. Teflon Flu, also known as polymer fume fever, occurs when noxious fumes from Teflon or chemically-treated nonstick pans are inhaled. These fumes are emitted when the pans overheat or burn, leading to symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle tension, and headache. Most air fryers have nonstick-coated cooking baskets, similar to nonstick cookware, which can chip if exposed to hard metal cooking utensils. While air fryers typically do not reach the temperatures that can cause Teflon Flu, it is still important to be cautious and avoid cooking at high temperatures if your air fryer can reach above 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the material used in nonstick cookware, is known as a “forever chemical” because it takes a long time to break down. Air fryer baskets are usually coated with Teflon or a similar nonstick coating, allowing food to be released easily and cleaned with hot, soapy water. If your air fryer has a setting that allows it to reach temperatures above 500 degrees Fahrenheit, it is recommended to avoid cooking at such high temperatures and consider replacing it with a model that stays below 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Some air fryers come with ceramic or glass bowl cooking chambers, which may be a safer option for those concerned about Teflon Flu or other complications associated with nonstick coatings.
While most air fryers do not exceed 450 degrees Fahrenheit, it is still important to be cautious and follow safety guidelines when using these countertop cookers. By keeping the temperature at 450 or below and avoiding cooking at high temperatures, you can reduce the risk of exposure to harmful emissions from the nonstick coating. For those who are still worried about Teflon Flu or other issues related to nonstick coatings, there are air fryers available with ceramic or glass bowls, which may be a safer alternative. By taking these precautions and choosing the right air fryer for your needs, you can enjoy healthier cooking without the risk of Teflon Flu or other potential health concerns associated with nonstick coatings.
