Is the increasingly popular use of air fryers as healthy as you think?
Air fryers, which have become a frequent choice in kitchens in recent years, attract attention with their claim of cooking food using little oil. So, do air fryers, which have become so popular in kitchens, contribute to healthy eating by offering the opportunity to cook with less oil? Here is what you need to know about the healthy use of these devices...
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Air fryers cook food using hot air circulation instead of deep-frying. This method can reduce oil usage by 70-80% compared to traditional frying. Additionally, it saves time by offering shorter cooking times compared to an oven.
LESS OIL, FEWER CALORIES
One of the biggest advantages of an air fryer is that it reduces the calorie content of meals thanks to low oil usage. This can help lower the risk of obesity while helping to keep cholesterol levels balanced and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, it is noted that harmful compounds that can form in traditional frying are less likely to form in an air fryer.
PAY ATTENTION TO COOKING TIMES
However, there are some points to consider when using an air fryer. Ready-made frozen products can remain unhealthy even if cooked in an air fryer because they contain trans fats and additives. Additionally, cooking for a long time at high temperatures can lead to the formation of unwanted burnt compounds. Proteins such as meat and fish may dry out due to oil-free cooking, which can create a negative experience in terms of flavor and digestion.
TEMPERATURES SHOULD BE ADJUSTED ACCORDING TO FOOD TYPES
To use an air fryer in a healthy way, one should avoid processed foods and prefer fresh products. The cooking temperature and time should be adjusted according to the type of food; for example, 180–200°C is ideal for potatoes, while 160–180°C is ideal for meat. To prevent burning, food should be checked during the cooking process and removed early if necessary. If oil must be used, healthy oils such as olive oil or avocado oil should be preferred. Additionally, regular cleaning of the device is important for hygiene and the lifespan of the device.
In conclusion, while air fryers provide fast cooking and energy savings, they can also be considered a healthy cooking method. However, it is possible to fully benefit from these advantages with correct usage and careful choices.