Can You Put Metal in an Air Fryer

Have you ever wondered whether or not you can safely add metal roasting trays or baking dishes inside of your air fryer? Or even whether you can use foil (a type of metal)? These are very frequently asked questions and it seems like there are too many contradicting answers! Well, we are here to help clear things up!

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for many, offering a healthier way to enjoy crispy foods with minimal oil. But when it comes to using metal in an air fryer, confusion often arises, largely due to comparisons with microwaves, where metal is a big no-no. The good news? You can use metal in an air fryer, but there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure safety and optimal cooking results. Let’s dive into the details, addressing what metals are safe, how to use them properly, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Understanding How Air Fryers Work

To grasp why metal can be safe in an air fryer, it’s helpful to understand the appliance’s mechanics. Unlike microwaves, which use electromagnetic waves that can cause metal to spark, air fryers operate like mini convection ovens. They circulate hot air, typically between 200°F and 400°F, using a heating element and a fan to cook food evenly. This means there’s no risk of electrical arcing with metal, making it generally safe to use, provided it meets certain criteria. For a deeper look into air fryer functionality, check out Food Network’s guide.

Safe Metals for Air Fryers

Not all metals are created equal when it comes to air fryer use. Here’s a breakdown of the safest options:

• Stainless Steel: Highly durable and heat-resistant, stainless steel pans, bowls, and racks are excellent choices. They conduct heat evenly, making them ideal for dishes like roasted vegetables or baked goods. Many air fryers even come with stainless steel baskets or racks for better air circulation.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable, oven-safe aluminum pans can withstand air fryer temperatures (up to 1220°F). Aluminum foil is also safe, but more on that later.
• Cast Iron: Known for its heat retention, cast iron skillets are safe and perfect for achieving a crispy sear on meats or one-pan meals. However, they take longer to heat up, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

Always ensure the metal is labeled “oven-safe,” as this indicates it can handle high temperatures without warping or releasing harmful substances. Avoid metals with non-oven-safe coatings, like painted or nonstick surfaces, as these can break down and contaminate food.

Using Aluminum Foil in an Air Fryer

Aluminum foil is a popular choice for lining air fryer baskets to simplify cleanup, but it requires careful use. Foil is safe as long as it doesn’t obstruct airflow, which is critical for even cooking. Here are some tips:

• Place foil only in the basket, not the bottom of the fryer, to avoid blocking the heating element.
• Weigh down the foil with food or use pie weights to prevent it from blowing into the heating element, which could cause burning.
• Avoid using foil with acidic foods (like tomatoes or citrus), as they can react with aluminum, potentially leaching metal into your food.

For basket-style air fryers, ensure the foil doesn’t cover all the holes, as this restricts airflow. In oven-style air fryers, lining the drip tray with foil is a great way to catch drippings without affecting cooking performance. For more on foil safety, see Southern Living’s advice.

Metals and Cookware to Avoid

While many metals are safe, some should never go in an air fryer:

• Copper: Copper conducts electricity too well, heating unevenly and posing a fire risk. It can also react with acidic foods, releasing harmful compounds.
• Painted Metals: Unless coated with FDA-approved enamel (common in cast iron), painted metals can release toxic fumes when heated.
• Nonstick Cookware: High temperatures can damage nonstick coatings, causing them to flake into food. Stick to bare metal or silicone alternatives.
• Metal with Plastic or Wooden Handles: These materials can melt or burn, so opt for all-metal or silicone-handled cookware.

Additionally, avoid oversized metal containers that block airflow or touch the heating element, as this can damage the appliance or lead to uneven cooking.

Practical Tips for Using Metal in an Air Fryer

To get the best results when using metal cookware or foil, keep these pointers in mind:

• Check Size Compatibility: Ensure your metal dish fits comfortably in the air fryer basket without crowding. A pan that’s too tall or wide can disrupt airflow or touch the heating element.
• Maintain Air Circulation: Place food in a single layer and avoid covering the entire basket with foil or large pans. This ensures the hot air can reach all surfaces for that signature crispy texture.
• Use Oven Mitts: Metal gets extremely hot, so always use mitts when handling dishes to avoid burns.
• Consult Your Manual: Some air fryer models, like certain Philips units, may have specific restrictions on foil or metal use. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Metal racks, often included with air fryers, are particularly useful for elevating food, allowing hot air to circulate underneath for even cooking. They’re great for everything from chicken wings to cookies.

Health and Safety Considerations

There’s been some online chatter about air fryers and heavy metal toxicity, particularly from a viral TikTok video claiming stainless steel air fryers could leach metals into food. However, experts, including dietitians, have debunked this, stating there’s no evidence linking air fryers to such risks when used correctly. Stainless steel and other oven-safe metals are non-reactive and safe for cooking. That said, always avoid damaged or low-quality metal cookware, as it could potentially release harmful substances. For a balanced perspective on air fryer safety, The Indian Express offers insights from health professionals.

Alternatives to Metal

If you’re hesitant about using metal, consider these air fryer-safe alternatives:

• Silicone: Heat-resistant up to 343°C, silicone molds and liners are flexible, nonstick, and perfect for baking or messy recipes.
• Ceramic: Oven-safe ceramic dishes heat evenly and are great for casseroles or desserts.
• Glass: Borosilicate glass, like Pyrex, is safe if oven-rated, but avoid thermal shock by letting it reach room temperature before cooking.

These materials offer versatility and safety, especially for beginners unsure about metal use.

So, can you put metal in an air fryer? You can definitely put metal inside of an air fryer; however, it has to be an oven-safe metal dish! Most metal dishes have been made to withstand high temperatures for long periods of time. Plus, because an air fryer doesn’t work with any magnetic currencies (like microwaves do), you can safely put in foil as well!