I’m an appliance pro – why you should stop using air fryers made with a toxic “forever” chemical linked to cancer

AIR fryers are growing in popularity thanks to their portable size and fast, healthy cooking method.

However, one appliance expert warned about the dangerous chemical found in this popular cooking utensil – and how to avoid lifelong damage.

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Digital Creator @flavcity is the self-proclaimed “food story guy”.

He shares the best health tips and tricks to help users bring out the best in their bodies.

The pro shares videos on savings, grocery reviews and deep dives into popular fast food chains.

In his viral TikTok, @flavcity warned users against using air fryers with a “forever” chemical.

“Air fryers are very popular, but open up the ones you have at home,” he began.

“If it’s coated with this Teflon,” he demonstrated, presenting the shiny coating in an air fryer. “I strongly recommend not using it.”

“Teflon is a toxic chemical,” he explained.

“If you abuse it, it contains chemicals forever,” he shared.

According to NPR, “forever chemicals” don’t decompose, which has led to widespread contamination.

They have been linked to some cancers, low birth weight, thyroid disease and other health effects, according to the New York Times.

Manufacturers use the chemicals known as PFAS to make products resistant to oil, heat, stains or water.

They can be found in everything from cosmetics to outdoor gear, non-stick pans, food packaging, and countless others, according to the CDC.

“The problem is that they are very easy to leash,” he said.

“If you overheat your Teflon, [they] go in the air [and] you breathe it,” he said.

“If you scratch your Teflon, which a lot of us do with tongs or forks, it gets into your food and into your body,” he said.

“Luckily, they make air fryers that are 100% stainless steel and non-toxic,” he concluded, recommending getting one of these as an alternative.