When it comes to using plastic in an air fryer, the answer is a resounding no. It is not safe to put plastic containers, such as Tupperware or plastic takeaway containers, in an air fryer. The reason for this is that plastic is not designed to withstand high temperatures, especially the temperatures reached inside an air fryer.
Plastic containers are not oven-safe, and the air fryer essentially functions as a mini oven. The general rule of thumb is that if something can go in an oven, it can also go in an air fryer. However, plastic is the exception to this rule.
Heating plastic containers in the air fryer can lead to a variety of issues. Firstly, the plastic can melt or warp due to the high temperatures, which can cause a mess and potentially damage the air fryer itself. Additionally, when plastic is heated, it can release harmful chemicals into your food.
One such chemical is BPA (bisphenol A), which is commonly found in plastic containers. BPA is known to leach into food when heated, and it has been linked to various health concerns, including hormone disruption and increased risk of certain diseases. Therefore, it is important to avoid exposing plastic to high temperatures, whether it be in the air fryer or any other cooking appliance.
If you need to reheat food in your air fryer, it is best to transfer it to an oven-safe dish or container. Glass or ceramic dishes are excellent alternatives to plastic and can safely withstand the high temperatures of the air fryer. These materials are also less likely to leach any harmful chemicals into your food.
It is crucial to avoid putting plastic containers in an air fryer. The high temperatures can cause the plastic to melt, release harmful chemicals into your food, and potentially damage the air fryer itself. Stick to using oven-safe dishes, such as glass or ceramic, when reheating food in your air fryer to ensure both the safety of your food and the longevity of your appliance.