My Fave Non-Toxic Air Fryer (Without Plastic or Teflon!) 2024

Wanting to clean up the small kitchen appliances you use?

As much as I loved our air fryer, i was bummed to learn about the chemicals used in the non-toxic coating. So I went on the hunt for a better option. Here’s what I found…

Over the last few years, I have loved using an air fryer. I love how it leaves things crispy without all the oil in deep frying, is quick and easy, and (most importantly) hands-free. You pretty much just set it and forget it. 

But a while back, I started realizing a weird plastic smell coming from the device. I gave it a good cleaning, but still the smell lingered. 

I started doing some research and learned about some of the popular non-stick coatings that are used inside air fryers. (of course they are– but i hadn’t even thought about it when I purchased my air fryer a few years back).

So I hit the internet again to do some research– what is a better air fryer option? My requirements for a new air fryer were finding a product that is plastic-free and does not use any chemical-based nonstick coatings. This blog post will share everything I found, and what my ultimate choice is from the whole list of best non-toxic air fryers!

TLDR: The Our Place Wonder Oven is our fave. It can bake, broil, toast, roast, and air fry— all without harsh chemicals. Plus it’s the most aesthetically pleasing of the bunch which doesn’t hurt.

The Problem With Chemicals 

Whenever I talk about chemicals on this blog, I always want to mention a disclaimer. My heart in tackling this topic is never to fearmonger or create anxiety around “chemicals”. The reality is everything is a “chemical”. 

Certain ones don’t work well with our bodies. And many can accumulate in our tissues causing issues. These are often referred to as “forever chemicals” and are being linked to health concerns including cancer, infertility, and mental health problems (plus so many more).

The other factor to consider is the amount of toxins we are exposed to.

We have pesticides and herbicides in our produce, preservatives in our foods, chlorine and fluoride in our water, fragrances and sulfates in our beauty products– to name a few. 

And if our detox pathways are not open, this leads to accumulation.

All that to say, this information is presented so that you can make the best-informed decision for you and your family. 

Harmful Chemicals In Air Fryers

Air fryers have become so popular in recent years. Some people even calling them a must-have kitchen appliance. 

However, concerns have been raised about certain chemicals that may be present in their construction or released during use. Here are some common chemicals associated with air fryers and their potential harm:

1. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)

• Use: PTFE, commonly known as Teflon, is used to coat the non-stick cookware and the surfaces of air fryer baskets and trays.

• Harm: When overheated (above 500°F or 260°C), PTFE can release toxic fumes

2. PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid)

• Use: PFOA was historically used in the production of non-stick coatings, including PTFE.

• Harm: PFOA is linked to several health issues, including cancer, liver damage, developmental issues, and immune system disorders. Although it has been phased out in many countries, it may still be present in older products (think of that steal of a deal you got on an air fryer from the thrift store-- it may be due for an upgrade)

3. BPA (Bisphenol A)

• Use: BPA is used in some plastic components of air fryers.

• Harm: BPA is an endocrine disruptor and has been associated with various human health problems, including reproductive disorders, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Many manufacturers now offer BPA-free alternatives.

4. Phthalates

• Use: Phthalates are used as plasticizers in some parts of the air fryer.

• Harm: Phthalates are known to disrupt endocrine function and have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues, as well as increased risk of asthma and allergies.

5. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)

• Use: PFAS chemicals are used for their non-stick and water-resistant properties.

• Harm: PFAS are persistent in the environment and human body, leading to potential health risks such as cancer, hormone disruption, immune system effects, and developmental issues in children.

6. Acrylamide

• Formation: Acrylamide can form in starchy foods (like potatoes) when cooked at high temperatures, such as in air fryers.

• Harm: Acrylamide is classified as a probable human carcinogen, meaning it could increase the risk of cancer. It is also neurotoxic.

Minimizing Risks

• Choose PTFE- and PFOA-free models: Many manufacturers now offer air fryers with ceramic or other types of non-stick coatings that do not use PTFE or PFOA.

• Avoid high heat: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent overheating, which can lead to the release of harmful fumes.

• Use BPA-free models: Look for air fryers that specify they are BPA-free.

• PTFE- Free Air Fryers: Another compound that's a good idea to avoid.

• Cook at recommended temperatures: Avoid cooking foods at excessively high temperatures to reduce the formation of acrylamide.

Understanding these chemicals and their potential risks can help you make informed decisions when using or purchasing an air fryer.

How Air Fryers Work

Air fryers cook food by using a combination of a heating element and a powerful fan to circulate hot air around the food at high speed. This rapid air movement creates a crispy outer layer similar to frying but with significantly less oil. 

The food is placed in a perforated basket or tray within the cooking chamber, allowing the hot air to reach all sides. Users can adjust temperature and time settings to suit different recipes. This method results in faster cooking times and healthier meals with a fraction of the fat compared to traditional frying methods.

I love making crispy french fries, brussel sprouts, homemade chicken nuggets, and salmon fillets in our air fryer! They come out so much more crispy than from a conventional oven. It's a great way to support cooking a healthy diet for your whole family.

Best Non-Toxic Air Fryer 2024

1. Our Place Wonder Oven 6-in-1 

After soo much research, this is my top pick- the healthier air fryer option that we loove. We are ditching our microwave and love that this can truly do it all. Bake, reheat, air fry, roast, toast, and broil. It is literally a mini version of your traditional oven with so many different functions.

This prevents needing a bunch of small kitchen appliances-- we have this one and our pressure cooker and that's it. 

And unlike a lot of air fryers that are not the most aesthetic, the colors available on these are beautiful– I have my eyes on the Blue Salt color. 

PROS: 

• included baking sheet has a non-toxic nonstick coating- that means no toxic chemicals  

• shorter cooking time than competing brands

• includes a wire basket, bake pan, air fryer basket, and crumb tray 

Other popular options that I don't love....

• Ninja Foodi- this one has soooo many additional features that initially were really enticing. Who doesn't love a 1892480 in one option (kidding, it's actually 10 in one but still). While some of their products use ceramic coatings, they still use teflon in their non-stick coating in the ninja air fryer which took it off my list.

Advantages of Air Fryers

• Healthier Cooking: Requires less oil, reducing fat content. You can make crispy food that is lower in fat content than when made in a deep fryer.

• Faster Cooking: Cooks food quickly due to rapid air circulation.

• Versatility: Can be used for frying, baking, grilling, and roasting.

• Ease of Use: Simple operation with adjustable controls.

• Easy Cleanup: Many parts are dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.

My Favorite Healthy Recipes for the Air Fryer

While I have you here.. Here are a few of my favorite recipes for the air fryer:

• Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon

• 10 Minute Chicken Sausage and Veggies 

  This is such a great quick and easy dinner! I stock up on Aidells sausages from Costco to have on hand for dinners when I do not feel like cooking (or if we are having a busy evening). 

• Air Fryer Orange Chicken

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