Air fryers are often considered a “lifesaver” in the modern kitchen, but rumors about their potential cancer risk have left many people concerned. In reality, the issue lies not in the appliance itself, but in how it is used.

In recent years, air fryers have become a common household appliance thanks to their ability to prepare food with less oil, while being both convenient and time-saving. However, as their popularity has grown, so have claims on social media suggesting that food cooked in an air fryer may cause cancer.

So what is the truth? Is this appliance genuinely dangerous, or is improper use the real source of potential health risks?

One of the most common misconceptions is that air fryers themselves generate cancer-causing substances. In fact, this is not accurate.

When food is cooked at high temperatures, especially when it becomes burnt or charred, certain compounds such as acrylamide may form. Acrylamide is classified as a substance that may increase cancer risk if accumulated over a long period of time. However, this process is not unique to air fryers; it can also occur during frying, baking, roasting, or grilling using any cooking method.

According to Associate Professor Dr. Nguyễn Duy Thịnh, former lecturer at the Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology at Hanoi University of Science and Technology, as quoted by VnExpress, the real risk does not come from the appliance itself but from overheating food until it burns. Whether you use an oven, frying pan, or air fryer, charred food is not good for your health.

This means that when used properly, an air fryer is not the “culprit” many people fear.

Common Mistakes That Can Make Air Fryers Potentially Harmful

1. Cooking for Too Long at Excessively High Temperatures

Many people set very high temperatures for extended periods to make food crispier. However, this increases the likelihood of burning and forming undesirable compounds.

A safer approach is to cook food until just done, avoiding dark brown or blackened surfaces.

2. Continuing to Use a Damaged Nonstick Coating

Most air fryers use a PTFE (Teflon) nonstick coating. This material remains stable at temperatures below 260°C, which is significantly higher than typical cooking temperatures.

However, when the coating becomes scratched or starts peeling, the underlying metal—often an aluminum alloy—may be exposed. When cooking acidic foods such as tomatoes, lemons, or vinegar-based dishes, small amounts of metal may leach into the food over time.

If you notice that the nonstick coating is damaged, it is best to replace the basket or stop using the appliance.

3. Using Low-Quality Liners

Parchment paper and silicone liners are popular accessories for air fryers, but not all products are equally safe.

Poor-quality liners may release harmful chemicals when exposed to high heat. In addition, if the liner is not weighed down by food, it may be blown upward by hot air, touch the heating element, and create a fire hazard.

For safety, choose food-grade liners and always ensure they are secured beneath the food.

4. Overloading the Basket

Packing too much food into the basket can prevent even cooking and may cause food to come into contact with the heating element, increasing the risk of burning or damaging the appliance.

It is better to cook in smaller batches to ensure both safety and food quality.

5. Neglecting Regular Cleaning

Grease and food residue that accumulate over time can burn during future uses, producing smoke and potentially harmful substances.

Cleaning the air fryer immediately after each use not only prolongs its lifespan but also reduces these risks.

How to Use an Air Fryer Safely

To enjoy the benefits of an air fryer while protecting your health, follow these simple guidelines:

• Avoid cooking at excessively high temperatures for long periods.
• Do not allow food to become burnt or charred.
• Regularly inspect and maintain the nonstick coating.
• Use certified food-safe liners.
• Clean the appliance thoroughly after each use.
• Place the air fryer in a well-ventilated area with unobstructed air vents.
• Use a dedicated electrical outlet to prevent overload.

The Bottom Line

Air fryers do not directly cause cancer. The greater concern lies in improper habits—such as overheating food, consuming burnt meals, or continuing to use damaged equipment.

Like many kitchen appliances, their safety depends largely on how they are used. When understood and operated correctly, air fryers remain a valuable tool for preparing delicious, lower-fat meals that support a healthier lifestyle.

In other words, the problem is not the air fryer itself—it is how we use it every day.