Are air fryers really what they seem?
In recent years, air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a convenient and efficient way to cook everything from crispy fries to succulent chicken wings. However, as finance guru Martin Lewis warns, the growing popularity of air fryers may have hidden costs that consumers need to consider. The question on all our hands is whether air fryers or oven cooking is more economical.
Is air frying still cheaper?
While air fryers excel at cooking small, quick meals, using them for larger or multiple items can lead to increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills. Martin Lewis cautions against completely replacing traditional ovens with air fryers, particularly for larger meals that require multiple cooking sessions. This sentiment is echoed by Steph Kipling from Which?, who emphasizes that the savings from air frying diminish when cooking in batches, and larger meals may still be more economical to cook using a conventional oven or hob.
What are the hidden costs?
When deciding whether to jump on the air fryer bandwagon, it’s essential for consumers to carefully consider their cooking habits and needs. Recent findings from Which? shed light on the potential savings air fryers offer for smaller, quick meals. For instance, a 1500-watt air fryer basket used for about 30 minutes daily can set you back only around $3.50 per week. However, as your cooking needs grow—especially if you find yourself cooking larger batches—so do the energy costs. This means that while air fryers can be a money-saver for certain cooking scenarios, they might not always be the most economical choice for larger or more frequent use. Plus, don’t forget about the upfront costs! Air fryer models range from budget-friendly to more premium options, so there’s something for every wallet size. Ultimately, whether you decide to embrace the air fryer revolution should come down to your unique circumstances, cooking preferences, and finding the sweet spot between convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Check if air frying is right for you?
When considering whether to invest in an air fryer, consumers should weigh up the potential energy savings against their cooking habits and needs. While air fryers can offer significant savings for small, quick meals, larger or more frequent use may offset these benefits. Ultimately, the decision to embrace the air fryer revolution should be based on individual circumstances and preferences.