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Truly non-toxic air fryers are surprisingly hard to find â especially if youâre trying to avoid PFAS, questionable ceramic coatings, and poorly disclosed materials.
If youâve already started making swaps in your kitchen â like upgrading to safer cookware or rethinking your food storage â youâve probably noticed that small appliances are where things get⌠unclear.
Over the past few years, Iâve spent hundreds of hours researching kitchen appliances and comparing manufacturer disclosures, AB1200 filings, and Proposition 65 data to understand what these products are actually made of.
As a mom who cooks for my family every day, that level of transparency matters.
If youâre newer to all of this, I always suggest starting with a simple foundation (my non-toxic living guide for beginners walks through that step-by-step).
If you want the quick answer, below are the safest non-toxic air fryers I recommend based on materials, transparency, and real-world performance.
The Safest Non-Toxic Air Fryers Out There…
- Best Stainless Steel Air Fryer Oven: Wonder Oven
- Best Glass Non-Toxic Air Fryer: Fritaire
- Best High-Tech Air Fryer: Typhur
- Best Large-Capacity Family Air Fryer: Wonder Oven Pro
These models stood out for their safer cooking surfaces, material transparency, and consistent performance in real kitchens.
But choosing a safer air fryer starts with understanding a bigger problem in the appliance industry.
Are Air Fryers Toxic?
Air fryers themselves are not inherently toxic. The real concern comes from the materials used in baskets, trays, and interior coatings â especially when those materials are repeatedly heated at high temperatures.
Because hereâs the uncomfortable truth most brands donât talk about:
Many âPFAS-freeâ air fryers still rely on toxic ceramic-style coatings, aluminum food-contact surfaces, or vague material disclosures.
And yes â the one I use daily in my own kitchen made the list.
To understand why these materials matter so much, it helps to look at whatâs commonly used inside conventional air fryers â and why some of those materials raise health concerns.
The Hidden Risks In Your Air Fryer
Not all air fryers pose the same risks, but many conventional models rely on coatings and materials that werenât originally designed for repeated high-temperature cooking.
Below are some of the most common substances found in air fryer baskets, trays, and interior components â and why they raise concerns for toxin-conscious households.
PFAS: The âForever Chemicalsâ
Most air fryers use PFAS-based nonstick coatings â not just on the basket, but also on trays and racks.
Why that matters:
- High heat breaks down the coating, releasing toxic fumes.
- Linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and developmental issues
- Builds up in your body over time and never breaks down (hence âforeverâ).
Ceramic Coatings: Not Always Safer
Many âPFAS-freeâ air fryers use ceramic non-stick, which often includes nanoparticles like:
- Titanium dioxide â linked to gut issues in animal studies.
- Silicon dioxide â may lead to lung issues when scratched and inhaled.
Unless brands are transparent about their formulation (most aren’t), risk remains unclear.
Phthalates: The Hidden Hormone Disruptor
Even âtoxin-freeâ models may contain phthalates â used in plastic parts or alternative coatings.
Associated with developmental delays, hormone disruption, and respiratory issues.
Aluminum in Food Contact Parts
Some baskets or trays use bare aluminum, which can:
- Pose higher risks for kids and developing bodies
- Leach into food (especially acidic or hot)
- Be linked to neurological problems
This is why safety regulations like California’s AB1200 and Proposition 65 are so important to ensuring transparency about the materials used in consumer products and helping us make informed purchasing decisions.
SKL Standards
My Expert Criteria For Choosing Safer Air Fryers
After reviewing dozens of air fryer models and cross-checking manufacturer disclosures, lab testing data, and third-party reports, I developed a strict set of non-toxic criteria for this guide.
No air fryer is 100% free of all synthetic materials. However, some dramatically reduce chemical exposure risk â especially when food-contact surfaces are stainless steel or glass.
But there are options that dramatically reduce risk â especially when paired with the right accessories.
Hereâs what I prioritized:
Safest Materials
- Stainless Steel: Food-grade stainless is non-reactive, durable, and one of the safest materials available for cookware and appliances.
- Borosilicate Glass: Heat-resistant and chemically stable â an ideal choice for those avoiding synthetic coatings.
- Chrome-Plated Steel: While not perfect, itâs a better alternative to traditional non-stick and offers a safer cooking surface when used properly.
â Automatic Deal-Breakers
- PFAS (aka âforever chemicalsâ) in any food-contact parts
- Ceramic or non-stick coatings without full transparency or safety testing
- Bare aluminum in trays, baskets, or surfaces that touch food
When brands didnât offer full transparency, I reached out directly to ask the tough questions. If they couldnât clearly confirm material safety, I didnât include them here.
I also compared material disclosures across more than 25 air fryer models currently sold in North America to understand how brands differ in transparency.
P.S. Some air fryers may have a PTFE (aka Teflon) coating on certain parts, like the basket or tray. In these cases, I include recommendations on which accessories to swap out for safer alternatives.
With those criteria in mind, here are the air fryers that stood out for their material transparency, safer food-contact surfaces, and overall performance.
The Safest Air Fryer Brands In 2026
(Minimal To No Toxicity Concerns) These models meet our strictest standards for food-contact safety, material transparency, and reduced chemical exposure.
1. Our Place– Best Stainless Steel Air Fryer Oven
Best for families who want a stainless-steel interior air fryer without traditional non-stick coatings.

Use discount code SKL10 to save 10%!
After testing countless models over the years, the Wonder Oven Pro is the only air fryer I personally use in my own home.
It checks every box when it comes to both performance and peace of mind â no PFAS, no questionable coatings, and no sketchy materials where it matters most.
Unlike most air fryers on the market, this one uses high-quality stainless steel interiors and accessories, so your food never comes into contact with non-stick chemicals or low-grade plastic.
It also features a sleek design and intuitive settings that actually make it enjoyable to use daily.
Whether Iâm roasting veggies, reheating leftovers, or making crispy fries for my kids, this safe air fryer has earned its permanent place on my countertop.
Chemical disclosure
- AB 1200 Chemical Disclosure Information.
- Per the manufacturer, this product does not require a California Proposition 65 Warning.
Recommendations
- Many staffers at SKL, including myself, love the Wonder Oven and use it in our own kitchens.
- If you are concerned about cooking on the ceramic-coated baking tray you can swap it out for this stainless steel replacement. While not an exact fit you can place it on the wire rack for baking.
Our Favorites from Our Place:



2. Fritaire – Best Glass Non-Toxic Air Fryer
Best for anyone who prefers glass cooking surfaces instead of metal or non-stick baskets.Reviews)
The Fritaire will flip your concept of an air fryer inside out. The Fritaire Glass Bowl Air Fryer (SKU: Fritaire-01-WH) cooks in a transparent 5-quart glass bowl, so you can watch your food transform before your eyes. No more guessing games if your food is finished!
And the best part? All of the included components are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and PFOA/PTFE-free, making it a healthier choice for you and your family.
With six one-touch functions for steak, chicken, seafood, french fries, baking, and dehydrating, plus accessories like a rotisserie, French tumbler, and air rack, the Fritaire is a versatile kitchen superhero.
Boasting a powerful 1500-watt heater and engineered vortex convection, this air fryer serves up crispy, evenly cooked food using little to no oil.
Price
$199.99
notable features
90-day limited warranty, BPA, phthalate & PFOA/PTFE-free components, 1500-watt heater & vortex convection, even results, transparent non-toxic 5-quart glass bowl for easy monitoring
location/shipping
United States
Chemical disclosures
- Prop 65 warning- The packaging materials in this box may contain chemicals like Bisphenol S (BPS). The warning is related to the packaging materials only and does not affect the safety of cooking food in the air fryer.
Recommendations
- All surfaces that come into contact with food are made from high-quality, non-toxic stainless steel. This includes the rotisserie basket.
- Note: rotisserie SKEWER is chromed steel.
3. Typhur – Best High-Tech Air Fryer
Best for tech-forward kitchens that want fast cooking and smart design with PFAS-free materials.

The Typhur Dome 2 is one of the best non-toxic air fryers weâve tested â and itâs earned serious praise from experts.
Its dual heating elements and 360° heat circulation make cooking faster and more even, without the need for flipping or shaking.
It runs whisper-quiet at just 55dB, ideal for small spaces or early-morning meals.
Typhur confirmed their ceramic-coated basket is PFAS-free, FDA-certified, and free from titanium dioxide or silicon dioxide â a rare level of transparency in air fryer safety.
Price
$399
notable features
360° dual heating elements for faster, even cooking, whisper-quiet operation (55dB), 15-in-1 multifunctional design; self-cleaning capability
location/shipping
United States, ships to Canada
Chemical disclosures
- Chemical Disclosure Information.
- The Typhur Dome 2 Air Fryer basket contain aluminum and the handle contains carbon black.
- Prop 65 warning- The packaging materials in this box may contain chemicals like Bisphenol S (BPS). The warning is related to the packaging materials only and does not affect the safety of cooking food in the air fryer.
Recommendations
- If you are concerned about using an air-fryer with a non-stick ceramic coating we recommend opting for another option like the Fritaire
â ď¸ Acceptable With Accessory Swaps
(Minor Concerns, Easily Addressed)
4. GE Appliances
(4.6 out of 5 stars, 371 reviews)
GE Digital Air Fry model offers a stainless steel interior at a budget-friendly price point, which is a strong foundation compared to many competitors.
However, some of the included accessories introduce material trade-offs. While the base unit avoids PFAS coatings in major areas, certain components require upgrading for safer long-term use.
With the right swaps, it becomes a more reliable option.
Primary Concern
Aluminum bake pan and mixed-metal rack materials
Why It Matters
Aluminum and non-stainless components can degrade under repeated high heat
How To Make It Safer
Replace included rack and bake pan with stainless steel alternatives
The Cafe Couture Oven features a fully stainless steel interior and premium construction, making it one of the stronger builds in this tier.
However, the included baking accessories rely on coated and aluminum-based materials.
While the core unit is well-made, it does not meet our full material criteria without modifications. Accessory swaps significantly improve its safety profile.
Primary Concern
Enameled non-stick pans and aluminum-coated crumb tray
Why It Matters
Coated and aluminum components may wear or degrade over time
How To Make It Safer
Replace baking pans and crumb tray with stainless steel alternatives
The Brava Oven uses a stainless steel interior but includes aluminum-based trays with ceramic coatings.
Manufacturer disclosures list additional compounds in internal components and accessory materials.
While PFAS-free, the overall material composition does not meet our strictest low-toxicity criteria without swaps.
Primary Concern
Aluminum-based trays with ceramic coating
Why It Matters
Internal components include additional metal compounds and manufacturing-related chemicals per AB1200 filings
How To Make It Safer
Replace included trays with stainless steel alternatives when possible
The Emeril Power Grill 360 features a stainless steel exterior and multi-function cooking design, but several included accessories lower its overall material rating.
While the base unit avoids traditional PFAS coatings in core areas, multiple plated and aluminum components are used in food-contact parts.
Manufacturer disclosures also reference quartz (crystalline silica) in heating elements.
This model may be workable with modifications, but it does not meet our top-tier standards out of the box.
Primary Concern
Chrome-plated, aluminum-plated, zinc-plated, and die-cast aluminum accessories
Why It Matters
Mixed-metal and plated components may degrade under sustained high heat
How To Make It Safer
Replace grill grate and baking pan with stainless steel alternatives where possible
Why You Can Trust This Guide
This guide wasnât built from Amazon reviews or brand marketing claims.
I personally reviewed manufacturer material disclosures, California AB1200 filings, Proposition 65 statements, and third-party safety data to verify what these air fryers are actually made of â not just what brands advertise.
That same process is what I rely on when evaluating things like non-toxic bakeware and everyday kitchen staples like tea kettles â because heat, materials, and daily use are where exposure really adds up.
When material transparency wasnât clear, I contacted companies directly to confirm food-contact surfaces, coatings, and internal components.
Every model included here meets strict criteria for reducing PFAS, questionable non-stick coatings, and unnecessary chemical exposure.
This guide is independently researched, brand-agnostic, and updated for 2026.
â Not Recommended (Material Transparency or Safety Concerns)
The models below contain interior materials or coatings that do not meet our safety criteria. While some are PFAS-free, their use of galvanized steel, aluminum alloys, or poorly disclosed coatings raises concerns we are not comfortable recommending.
Hamilton Beach Easy Reach
⢠Galvanized (zinc-coated) interior
⢠Chrome-plated steel racks
⢠Aluminized steel baking pan
⢠Does not meet stainless steel or glass interior standard
Midea Flexify
⢠Aluminized steel interior
⢠Chrome-plated steel racks
⢠No AB1200 disclosure available
⢠Heavy aluminum reliance in food-contact zones
Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer
⢠Included air fryer basket contains PTFE
⢠Default configuration includes nonstick coating
⢠Durability concerns reported
⢠Does not meet full stainless food-contact standard
Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo
⢠Anodized aluminum interior
⢠Aluminum baking trays included
⢠No AB1200 disclosure
⢠Interior does not meet preferred high-heat material criteria
Ninja Crispi
⢠Nano-ceramic non-stick coating on food-contact surfaces
⢠Limited transparency on coating composition
⢠Aluminum components included
⢠Does not meet full stainless or glass food-contact standard
Black + Decker Extra Wide Convection
⢠Zinc-coated (galvanized) interior
⢠Uncoated aluminum baking pan included
⢠Prop 65 cord warning
⢠Interior construction does not meet preferred material criteria
The Air Fryer Industry Has a Transparency Problem
Many air fryer brands market their products as âPFAS-freeâ or ânon-toxic.â
Unfortunately, those claims donât always tell the full story.
Some common marketing tactics I see when reviewing appliance disclosures include:
⢠Labeling products PFAS-free while using ceramic nanoparticle coatings
⢠Failing to disclose food-contact metals like aluminum alloys
⢠Omitting ingredient disclosures for interior coatings
⢠Using vague phrases like âeco-friendly coatingâ
Thatâs why this guide focuses on material transparency first â marketing claims second.
FAQ: All Your Air Fryer Questions Answered!
Air fryers with PFAS-based nonstick coatings can release fumes if the coating overheats or begins to degrade. While modern appliances are designed to operate within safe temperature ranges, repeated high heat and surface damage can increase the risk of chemical breakdown. Choosing air fryers with stainless steel or glass cooking surfaces helps minimize this concern.
Air fryers themselves are not inherently unhealthy. The main concern comes from the materials used in baskets, trays, and interior coatings, especially when heated at high temperatures. Choosing models with stainless steel or glass food-contact surfaces can significantly reduce potential chemical exposure.
The safest air fryer materials are stainless steel and borosilicate glass because they are stable at high heat and donât require synthetic non-stick coatings. These materials are widely used in safer cookware for the same reason. Avoid baskets or trays with PFAS-based coatings or bare aluminum food-contact surfaces.
Teflon is a brand name for PTFE, a type of PFAS-based nonstick coating commonly used in cookware and some air fryer baskets. When used properly, PTFE is generally considered safe at normal cooking temperatures, but many people prefer to avoid it due to concerns about chemical exposure and long-term environmental persistence.
Ceramic coatings are often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional non-stick surfaces, but their safety depends on the formulation. Some ceramic coatings may contain nanoparticles such as titanium dioxide or silicon dioxide, which are not always fully disclosed by manufacturers. Choosing air fryers with transparent material disclosures or stainless steel cooking surfaces is typically a safer option.
A Prop 65 warning means a product may expose consumers to chemicals listed under Californiaâs Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act. These warnings often appear on appliances due to components like electrical wiring, packaging materials, or manufacturing processes. The warning does not automatically mean the appliance is unsafe, but it does signal the presence of listed chemicals somewhere in the product.
PFAS-free means a product does not intentionally contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, the chemicals used in traditional Teflon-style nonstick coatings. However, PFAS-free does not guarantee a product is completely non-toxic. Some manufacturers replace PFAS with ceramic-style coatings or alternative materials that may still lack full transparency.
Aluminum is commonly used in cookware and appliances, but bare aluminum food-contact surfaces can react with acidic foods and high heat. While occasional use is unlikely to pose serious health risks, many toxin-conscious consumers prefer stainless steel or glass alternatives. Using stainless steel trays or accessories can help reduce exposure.
No appliance is completely free of all synthetic materials because heating elements, wiring, and electronic components require modern manufacturing materials. However, some air fryers dramatically reduce risk by using stainless steel interiors, glass cooking bowls, and transparent material disclosures. These models are generally considered the safest options currently available.
If your current air fryer uses coated baskets or aluminum trays, you may be able to reduce exposure by swapping accessories for stainless steel alternatives. Avoid scratching non-stick coatings and cook at recommended temperatures. Regular cleaning also helps prevent buildup that could degrade cooking surfaces over time.
Stainless steel is often considered safer than non-stick coatings because it does not rely on synthetic chemical layers to prevent sticking. It is durable, heat stable, and widely used in professional cookware. While food may require a little oil to prevent sticking, many people prefer stainless steel for long-term safety.
The easiest way to check is by reviewing manufacturer disclosures or product documentation. Terms like PTFE, Teflon, or non-stick coatings often indicate PFAS may be present. If the materials are not clearly disclosed, contacting the manufacturer directly can help confirm what coatings are used.
How To Clean A Non-Toxic Air Fryer
To clean your air fryer while avoiding toxins, focus on using natural, non-toxic cleaning methods. Here’s a safe and effective approach:
Basic Cleaning
After each use, follow these steps:
- Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely.
- Remove the basket and tray.
- Wash removable parts with warm, soapy water using a mild, natural dish soap.
- Use a soft sponge or non-abrasive cloth to avoid damaging the non-stick coating.
- Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling.
Deep Cleaning
For stubborn grime or monthly maintenance, check out our best homemade oven cleaners.
Tips to Avoid Toxins
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the non-stick coating and potentially release harmful substances.
- Don’t use steel wool or scrubbing pads, which can scratch the surface and compromise its safety.
- Skip commercial oven cleaners or other strong chemical cleaners.
- Opt for natural deodorizers like lemon slices in warm water to freshen your air fryer.
Still Deciding?
If you’re choosing between the top options, hereâs a quick summary:
Wonder Oven â best stainless steel interior air fryer oven
Fritaire â best glass air fryer with zero metal cooking bowl
Typhur Dome 2 â best high-performance smart air fryer
Each of these models avoids traditional PFAS coatings and offers stronger material transparency than most air fryers currently on the market.
Final Thoughts on the Safest Non-Toxic Air Fryers
This guide to the best non-toxic air fryers of 2026 was created to help you find safer, PFASâfree options that truly deliver on safety and performance.
Whether youâre searching for a Teflonâfree air fryer, one with a stainless steel interior, or a model that skips questionable coatings altogether, the picks above are among the cleanest and most trustworthy available today.
Choosing a safer air fryer isnât always easy â many brands lean on vague marketing or omit material transparency altogether.
Thatâs why I went deep on materials, certifications, and manufacturer disclosures so you can shop with confidence and reduce toxins in your kitchen without giving up convenience.
Have questions about a specific model â or want to share whatâs worked for your nonâtoxic kitchen
Drop your thoughts in the comments! Iâd love to hear what youâre using (or avoiding), and I may even feature your insights in future updates.
Continue Your Non-Toxic Kitchen Journey
Transforming your kitchen starts with safer tools â these are some of our most popular nonâtoxic appliance and cookware guides:
- Non-Toxic Tea Kettles â Plastic-free kettles made from stainless steel, glass, or ceramic for cleaner boiling.
- Non-Toxic Toasters & Toaster Ovens â Cleaner countertop appliances made without harmful coatings so your toast stays chemical-free.
- Non-Toxic Cookware â Healthy pots and pans crafted from stainless steel, cast iron, and enamel to reduce toxin exposure while cooking.
- Non-Toxic Baking Sheets & Bakeware â Heat-safe, toxin-free bakeware made from stainless steel, ceramic, and glass for safer baking and roasting.
- Non-Toxic Rice Cookers â Safer rice cookers with stainless steel or ceramic interiors for toxin-free meal prep.
đ Save This Guide For Later
Saving this post to your Non-Toxic Kitchen or Healthy Home Pinterest board means you’ll always have the safest air fryer picks just a click away.
Tap the image below (or use the âPinâ button) to save it and help other toxin-conscious cooks find it too!

Research & Sources
At SKL, transparency matters just as much as safer materials. The research behind this guide draws from environmental health agencies, regulatory disclosures, and peer-reviewed studies on PFAS and chemical exposure.
These sources help explain why certain coatings, metals, and materials used in kitchen appliances may raise concerns â and why material transparency is so important when choosing everyday cookware and appliances.
- CNET. (n.d.). Your air fryer should never go above this temperature. https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/your-air-fryer-should-never-go-above-this-temperature/
- Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (n.d.). Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/pfc
- European Environment Agency. (n.d.). What are PFAS and how are they dangerous for my health? https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/about/contact-us/faqs/what-are-pfas-and-how-are-they-dangerous-for-my-health
- Sunderland, E. M., Hu, X. C., Dassuncao, C., Tokranov, A. K., Wagner, C. C., & Allen, J. G. (2019). A review of the pathways of human exposure to poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and present understanding of health effects. Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, 29(2), 131-147. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28913736/
- California Legislative Information. (2021). AB-1200 Plant-based food packaging: cookware: hazardous chemicals. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220AB1200
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. (n.d.). Proposition 65. https://oehha.ca.gov/proposition-65










Thanks so much for your guide to air fryers and that you get to the points immediately! Formatted very well and easy to read format! Iâm subscribing! đđđŚ
Thank you!!
I’m thrilled and very appreciative that in 2025, your full taking the time to write and research instead of taking the ai easy way out.
Your work here is noted.
Thank you!!!
Thank you for noticing this – we work SO hard on all of our blog posts. We promise to always be the ones behind the research and writing đ
Can you possibly confirm that the baking tray for the Midea Flexify⢠French Door Air Fryer Oven is indeed stainless steel? I was looking through the user manual before purchasing and it mentions ânon-stick coating of baking trayâ under Cleaning & Care.
Hi Kecia, Yes the doors are stainless steel. You can swap out the baking tray for one of our non-toxic options we listed in the article. When we reviewed the Midea, it did not have a non-stick coating tray BUT they may have added this due to the huge demand from consumers (I assume they just do not know the health implications of this!). So, if it comes with the tray, just swap it out.
I am most concerned about the air frying basket. That seeks harder to replace and if it contains non-stick chemicals I am not sure how to replace that.
I understand your concerns here – have you looked into the Fritaire? It’s quite large (I was shocked at how large it was) and cooks everything just perfectly. I highly recommend it!
What about Ninja CRISPi? Any thoughts about it?
Hi Gabriel, thanks for letting us know about this one! I just reached out to the brand and will let you know what we find out. I also placed an order so we can get our hands on it and vet it on our side đ
When I called the Midea company they told me the appliance itself had the warning…
Hi Renee! We personally tried and tested the Midea and we noted the Prop 65 warning in the section right under the caption. It does have one but we did not see it relating to any components that come into contact with food: Prop 65 warning- The packaging materials in this box may contain chemicals like Bisphenol S (BPS). The warning is related to the packaging materials only and does not affect the safety of cooking food in the air fryer.
Thank you for the response!
I’ve spent hours researching which air fryer to buy that would be nontoxic and work well, and this was the most helpful article out of all of them. Thank you for your attention to detail!
You are so welcome! If you need any more help, please feel free to ask away – we tried and tested each one on the list and have a folder filled with our folders and notes đ
Regarding replacement trays for the Medea unit, what size are you recommending?
The Wildone 12 x 10 stainless steel pan is the best fit I could come across on Amazon. Although it’s not wide enough to slide into the grooves, it rests securely on the wire rack. Hope this helps!
Are any of the Ninja or other brands of the basket type air fryers safe? Like the Ninja AD300CO or the DZ201.
Can you use a silicone basket liner to help?
One website says they use PFAs another says they are PFA free.
I don’t want to buy from someone that uses them in manufacturing but also want something easy to clean.
Hello,
I am considering purchasing a Cafe air fryer, I am very concerned about the toxic materials in our cooking appliances. I personally called the company and was told that the wire rack has steel and nickel plating and dehydrate function also uses the same materials. You don’t mention in your description of the materials used – nickel, I am concerned about that, what are your thoughts on this material? Is it toxic?
Thank you so much for reaching out and for doing your own researchâit’s incredibly important (and unfortunately not very common) to dig into the materials used in our everyday kitchen appliances.
You’re right to have questions about nickel. While nickel is a naturally occurring metal and often used in stainless steel, it can cause health concerns for certain individuals, especially those with a nickel allergy or sensitivity. For most people, the levels of nickel used in food-contact surfacesâespecially when alloyed in stainless steelâarenât likely to pose a significant risk. However, prolonged contact with acidic foods or high heat can increase the potential for leaching small amounts of nickel into food, particularly if the plating wears down over time.
Because Cafe confirmed their wire racks are nickel-plated, itâs something to be aware ofâespecially if you’re nickel-sensitive or planning to use the dehydrate function often (which involves long, low-heat cooking). That said, nickel is not classified as a known toxin like PFAS or BPA, but it can still be a concern in the context of bioaccumulation or chronic exposure for some people.
We always recommend erring on the side of caution, especially when transparency is lacking. If this makes you uncomfortable, you may want to consider safer alternatives with fully stainless steel or uncoated food-contact surfacesâlike the Fritaire or a model that offers non-plated, lab-disclosed components.
Let me know if youâd like help narrowing down options that are nickel-free or better for metal sensitivities. Iâd be happy to help!
I misspoke in my previous comment. I meant to say that per fritaire the rotisserie SKEWER is chromed steel.
Thank you so much for the clarificationâthis is incredibly helpful!
Iâll make sure to update the Fritaire listing to reflect that the rotisserie skewer is made of chromed steel, not stainless. Accuracy matters so much in this space, especially for readers who are trying to reduce their exposure to questionable metals or coatings in their kitchen.
Your attention to detail and follow-up truly helps improve the quality of our recommendations. Thank you again for taking the time to share this correctionâI’ve noted it and will revise accordingly!
Thanks for the insightful reviews! I tried using your code on Our Place, however it said it wasnât valid đ
Hi there,
Thank you so much for letting me know about this â I truly appreciate it.
Because of your comment, we reached out to the brand right away to let them know the code isnât working. Iâm so grateful you took the time to flag it â it really helps us keep everything accurate and up to date for our readers.
Iâm sorry for the frustration, especially if you were ready to check out. As soon as we hear back from them, weâll make sure everything is updated on our end.
Thank you again for being here and for your support â it means more than you know.
Hi,
I just bought the normal wonder oven and the material of the baskets and such is chromed steel. When I go to the pro version it says âsteelâ instead of chromed steel. But it doesnât say stainless steel. How odd. Iâm not 100% sure now what materials are used since steel could mean either. But I wanted to let everyone know the normal wonder ovens should not be expected to be stainless steel.
Also these are not dishwasher safe, the trays and sheet etc. I found that surprising too.
Additionally, someone else emailed and was told the ceramic is nano. Whatever that means. If that means anything to someone they can email and ask. Donât assume itâs not. Just trying to help everyone understand their options better.
Best,
Rachael
Hi Rachael â this is such a thoughtful breakdown, thank you for sharing all of this đ¤
Youâre absolutely right on a few key points, especially around the wording. Terms like âsteelâ vs. âstainless steelâ and âchromed steelâ can mean very different things â and we always encourage people to question that level of detail.
For anyone reading:
⢠Chromed steel = a plated surface, not solid stainless
⢠âSteelâ doesnât automatically mean food-grade stainless
⢠âNano ceramicâ typically refers to a coating, not fully ceramic material
That said, this is exactly why the Wonder Oven is categorized the way it is in the guide. Itâs not being presented as perfect â itâs included because it significantly reduces risk compared to conventional air fryers (especially those using PFAS-based non-stick coatings).
The stainless steel interior and overall material profile still make it a better option in a category where truly non-toxic appliances are very limited â but like most appliances, itâs not 100% free of all coatings or material trade-offs.
And youâre also spot on about care â when something isnât dishwasher safe, itâs often a sign that coatings or plated materials are involved and need more gentle handling over time.
Really appreciate you adding this context â this kind of discussion is exactly what helps people make more informed, realistic choices đ¤
What about the Cuisinart TOA-60 or the Breville Smart Oven with tray swaps?
Also, is the Media safe or not?
Great questions â this is where things can get a little nuanced đ¤
Cuisinart TOA-60 / Breville Smart Oven (with tray swaps):
These can be a better option if youâre mindful. The interiors are typically stainless steel, which is great â but many of the included trays and baskets come with non-stick coatings. Swapping those out for uncoated stainless steel or glass is definitely the way to go.
That said, even with swaps, you still have to consider internal components, so theyâre not 100% ânon-toxicâ â just a safer alternative.
Midea air fryers:
Most Midea models rely on non-stick coated baskets and trays. Even if labeled PFAS-free, they still use coated surfaces that can degrade over time with heat and use. Because of that, they donât meet our criteria for long-term non-toxic cooking.
Bottom line:
If youâre going the air fryer route, stainless steel interiors + swapping out coated accessories is the best middle ground. Otherwise, sticking with oven cooking using stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware is still the safest option overall.
Hope that helps đ¤