Does an Air Fryer Contain PFAS? Your Guide to Safer Cooking

October 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ASTDR), PFAS can be detected in the blood of most people. This raises important questions about common kitchen appliances, leading many to ask: does an air fryer contain PFAS? While not all air fryers contain these chemicals, many use non-stick coatings with PFAS, which can degrade and pose health risks under high heat.

Quick Summary

Many air fryers feature non-stick coatings made with PFAS, like PTFE (Teflon), which can release potentially harmful fumes when overheated or scratched. Consumers can find PFAS-free alternatives made from materials such as ceramic, stainless steel, or glass to ensure healthier cooking.

Key Points

PFAS chemicals are used in many non-stick coatings: Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), known as Teflon, is a common PFAS found in numerous air fryer baskets.
Overheating is the main risk: At temperatures above 500°F (260°C), PTFE can break down and release potentially harmful fumes.
Look for PFAS-free alternatives: Consumers can find safer air fryers with cooking surfaces made from ceramic, stainless steel, or glass.
Examine product labels carefully: Look for explicit 'PFAS-free,' 'PFOA-free,' or 'PTFE-free' claims when shopping for a new air fryer.
Carefully maintain non-stick surfaces: To minimize risk with older models, avoid metal utensils and harsh scrubbing that can scratch and degrade the coating.
Use safe accessories for protection: Parchment paper or silicone liners can help protect compromised surfaces and make cleanup easier in any air fryer.

Understanding PFAS in Air Fryers

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of man-made chemicals that are exceptionally resistant to heat, water, and stains. They are dubbed 'forever chemicals' because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. In cookware, PFAS are used to create a non-stick surface, with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known by the brand name Teflon, being the most prominent example.

For many years, non-stick coatings were valued for their convenience and easy cleanup. However, scientific evidence has raised concerns about the potential health effects of PFAS exposure, linking it to various health issues, including increased cholesterol, changes in the immune system, and an increased risk of certain cancers. This has prompted a shift in consumer awareness and a demand for safer kitchen alternatives.

The Risks of Overheating Non-Stick Coatings

The primary concern with air fryers that use PFAS-based non-stick coatings arises from the high temperatures they reach. While air fryers are generally safe when used correctly, overheating can cause PTFE to break down. Studies have shown that PTFE can degrade and release toxic fumes at temperatures above 500°F (260°C), a temperature some air fryers can approach or exceed.

Polymer Fume Fever: Inhaling fumes from an overheated PTFE-coated pan can cause polymer fume fever, also known as 'Teflon flu.' Symptoms typically include fever, chills, and headache. While these symptoms are temporary in humans, the fumes can be fatal to birds.
Ingestion of Flakes: Over time, and with the use of metal utensils, the non-stick coating can scratch and flake off. Ingesting these small particles is generally not considered a health risk, as the PTFE polymer is inert and passes through the body. However, the presence of these particles indicates a compromised coating and potential for chemical release.
Invisible Dangers: Some experts point out that the degradation of non-stick surfaces doesn't always require visible flaking. Micro-particles laced with PFAS can be released, particularly when the coating is scratched or damaged, or when heated to high temperatures.

Identifying a PFAS-Containing Air Fryer

Knowing whether your air fryer contains PFAS can be tricky, as not all manufacturers explicitly state the materials used. However, there are several clues and steps you can take to find out:

Check the Product Label: Look for claims like 'PFOA-free' or 'PTFE-free' on the packaging or in the product description. The absence of these labels may indicate that a PFAS-containing non-stick material is used.
Examine the Interior: Air fryers with a distinct black, non-stick basket often use a PFAS-based coating. In contrast, models using stainless steel, glass, or ceramic will typically look different.
Research the Brand: Perform an online search for the manufacturer and model number of your air fryer, along with terms like 'PTFE' or 'PFAS.' Brands focused on non-toxic cookware, like GreenPan or Fritaire, often advertise their PFAS-free status.

Safer Alternatives to PFAS Air Fryers

Fortunately, for those concerned about PFAS, the market offers several high-quality air fryers made with safer materials. Choosing one of these options provides peace of mind without sacrificing performance.

Comparison of Air Fryer Materials


Feature	PTFE/PFAS-Coated	Ceramic-Coated	Stainless Steel	Glass
Non-Stick Property	Excellent	Good (natural)	Requires oil/grease	Natural, transparent
Durability	Vulnerable to scratches	Good; check for quality	Excellent; scratch-resistant	More fragile than steel
Chemical Safety	Releases fumes when overheated	Generally PFAS-free; check labels	Inert; no coatings	Inert; no chemicals
Cleaning	Very easy; requires gentle tools	Easy; requires gentle tools	Easy with scrubbing; can be soaked	Very easy; non-porous
Heat Distribution	Good	Excellent; even heating	Excellent; even heating	Good

Material Spotlight: PFAS-Free Options

Ceramic Coatings: This is a popular non-stick alternative that is naturally non-stick and free from PFAS, PFOA, and heavy metals. Look for models that are certified lead- and cadmium-free for extra assurance.
Stainless Steel: Known for its durability and heat resistance, stainless steel offers a coating-free surface that is inert and safe. While not naturally non-stick, it can be managed with proper preheating and a small amount of oil.
Glass: Some of the safest air fryer options are made with a glass cooking chamber. This material is completely non-toxic and allows you to monitor food as it cooks, though it may be heavier and more fragile than other alternatives.

Making the Switch: Practical Steps

If you're ready to transition away from a PFAS-coated air fryer, follow these practical steps to choose and maintain a safer appliance:

Evaluate Your Current Air Fryer: Check for any signs of damage like flaking or scratches on the non-stick surface. If present, it may be time to replace it. A simple paper towel test can reveal dark specks, indicating a degrading coating.
Choose a Non-Toxic Material: Select an air fryer with a basket or cooking chamber made from glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. Reputable brands like Ninja, Breville, and Instant Pot offer PFAS-free models.
Use Safe Accessories: For added protection and easier cleanup, consider using PFAS-free air fryer liners made from parchment paper or silicone.
Avoid Aerosol Sprays: Propellants in aerosol cooking sprays can break down non-stick coatings over time. Instead, use a refillable oil spritzer with a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or coconut oil.

In conclusion, while not all air fryers contain PFAS, many older or cheaper models rely on non-stick coatings made with these chemicals. By understanding the risks and exploring the growing market of safer, PFAS-free alternatives, you can make an informed decision and enjoy healthier cooking in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals known as 'forever chemicals' due to their longevity. In air fryers, they are used in non-stick coatings, like PTFE, and can release toxic fumes or microscopic particles if the coating is overheated or scratched, posing potential health risks.

Many air fryers with a black, slick-looking cooking basket or inner surface use a PTFE-based coating. Check the product description or contact the manufacturer to confirm. The presence of scratches or flaking is a strong indicator of a non-stick coating that is degrading.

It is not recommended to use a scratched or damaged non-stick air fryer basket, as this can increase the risk of the coating flaking into your food. A paper towel test revealing dark specks is a sign it should be replaced.

Yes, PFAS fumes released from overheated cookware can be harmful and potentially fatal to birds, and toxic to other small pets.

The safest, non-toxic materials for air fryers include ceramic, stainless steel, and glass. These options do not rely on chemical non-stick coatings and are more durable or inert under high heat.

No. While PFOA (a type of PFAS) has been largely phased out, a product labeled PFOA-free can still contain other PFAS chemicals. For true non-toxic assurance, look for explicit 'PFAS-free' or material-based claims like 'ceramic-coated' or 'stainless steel'.

To prolong the life of a non-toxic air fryer, use gentle cleaning methods, avoid metal utensils, and use parchment paper or silicone liners when necessary. Avoid using aerosol cooking sprays with propellants that can harm the surface.