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Air fryers have become a popular kitchen gadget across the UK, known for being a quicker, healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods. However, despite countless social media hacks suggesting otherwise, cooking bacon in an air fryer might not be the best idea. Dietitian Brenda Peralta warns that due to bacon’s high fat content, it can create smoke, splatter, and uneven cooking in the air fryer. This not only affects taste and appearance but can also pose a food safety risk. Plus, flipping bacon strips without breaking them in the fryer basket can be tricky.

Peralta also points out that most air fryers aren’t large enough to cook bacon in bigger batches, which makes them inconvenient for feeding a group. So, while air fryers are great for foods like Brussels sprouts, roast potatoes, falafel, and breaded chicken, it’s best to stick to the hob for bacon. TikToker Nicole Jacques also suggests avoiding cheese, cake donuts, and rice in the air fryer. Despite a few limitations, air fryers still offer great value—but when it comes to a proper fry-up, the traditional stovetop is the way to go.