A doctor has explained why she decided to discard her air fryer due to concerns over the potential health risks associated with this popular kitchen appliance.

Air fryers have become a common household item in the U.S., and it’s easy to understand why.

Why spend 30-45 minutes cooking a meal in the oven when you can have it ready in just 15 minutes with an air fryer?

Plus, air fryers are versatile, allowing you to cook almost anything. So what's not to love?

However, Dr. Poonam Desai has pointed out some potential drawbacks to the device that millions of Americans now rely on.

"I’m a longevity doctor, and I threw out my air fryer," Dr. Desai shared in a recent Instagram video. "While air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep frying by using less oil, they can produce acrylamides—chemicals that are linked to cancer—when cooking at high temperatures."

Acrylamide, a white crystalline compound, forms in foods when cooked at high heat. Although it has been shown to cause cancer in lab animals at elevated levels, there is no conclusive evidence proving the same effect in humans.

"The longer and hotter the food is cooked, the more acrylamide it can produce," Dr. Desai added. "Many air fryers also have non-stick coatings containing PFAS, which can be harmful to your health."

Fortunately, regular cleaning of your air fryer can help reduce the chemicals.

Dr. Richard Anderson, head of learning and development at High Speed Training, advised in The Daily Express: "It’s recommended to clean your air fryer lightly after each use and perform a deeper clean every month, or more frequently if you cook greasy foods."

"For a deeper monthly clean, make sure to clean all the accessories and the inside of the appliance thoroughly to remove burnt food, grease, and odors." He further noted: “Although some air fryers are labeled as dishwasher-safe, dishwashers can strip the non-stick coating from the components.”

For stubborn grease, Dr. Anderson suggests filling the tray or drawer with water, adding a dishwasher tablet, and letting it soak overnight, then rinsing it the following day.

It’s crucial to clean your air fryer well, as some models contain polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—chemicals found in food packaging, toiletries, non-stick cookware, and carpets.

According to the American Cancer Society, these chemicals don’t break down easily in the body and can remain for extended periods.

Some studies suggest that exposure to PFAS could increase the risk of cancer.