Air fryer owners have been cautioned against cooking certain foods in them, including one dish that could pose a fire hazard, a specialist warns. The air fryer trend has taken the nation by storm, with more people opting for these convenient kitchen appliances over traditional ovens. Known for their healthier and quicker cooking methods, air fryers are also cost-effective. Despite their rising popularity, an expert from AO.com has raised concerns that by cooking inappropriate foods in air fryers, users are shortening the lifespan of their appliances and potentially creating fire risks. Jay Lockton from AO.com highlights that by cooking foods that shouldn’t be in the air fryer, people are putting their devices and families at risk. Recent data from AO.com shows that air fryers have surpassed conventional kitchen appliances like ovens, kettles, and microwaves as Brits’ favourite kitchen tool. However, many users remain unaware that certain foods should not be cooked in air fryers, with popcorn singled out as a potential fire hazard. Cooking popcorn in the air fryer can lead to kernels blowing around and causing burns, so it’s advised to stick to preparing it on a hob or in a microwave. To help users maintain their air fryers and prolong their lifespan, Jay has identified four other popular foods that should be avoided in these devices. These include cheese, high sugar sauces, leafy greens such as spinach, and raw grains like pasta and rice. Properly cooked pasta and rice are recommended for air fryers, as raw grains may not cook adequately in the appliance. By being mindful of what foods to avoid in air fryers, users can ensure the safety of their devices and enjoy their cooking experience.