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NZ Herald
30-04-2025
- Health
- NZ Herald
Are air fryers actually healthy?
But how do they really compare to the conventional oven – and are they as healthy as claimed? How do air fryers work? Air fryers are like miniature fan ovens, only they're much smaller and the fan is much stronger, explains Dell Stanford, a senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation. A heating element sits at the top of the fryer and the food goes into a perforated drawer at the bottom. When heat is emitted into the main chamber, a powerful fan blows hot air around the food to cook it. 'Because they're much smaller than a conventional oven, they tend to heat up and cook food much more quickly,' Stanford explains. 'They're more energy efficient and cost-effective.' Ninja claims its 'Foodi Dual Zone' air fryer cooks up to 75% faster than fan ovens, while the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 model uses up to 80% less energy. 'The downside is that because they're smaller and have less capacity than a conventional oven, you can only really cook food for one or two people. When they're overfilled, they don't tend to work as well,' Stanford says. What are the health benefits of air fryers? 1. You cook with less oil While food cooked in an air fryer still benefits from a small amount of oil, roughly a teaspoon for a batch of chips or half a tablespoon for four chicken breasts, it is far less than what is required for oven cooking or deep-frying. One study in the Journal of Food Science proved that French fries cooked using an air fryer was substantially lower in fat. This is because it crisps up food by circulating hot air, rather than immersing it in oil. Air fryer meals are therefore comparatively lower in fat and calories (as one gram of oil is equivalent to around nine calories). 'Whilst 100g of deep-fried chips can contain around 15g of fat, air fried versions may have as little as 3-5g,' explains Rob Hobson, a nutritionist and author of Unprocess Your Family Life. 'They're particularly helpful if you're watching your weight or cutting back on saturated fat.' The health risks of excessive oil intake are well established. A diet high in saturated fats has been consistently linked to increased LDL cholesterol levels which can lead to heart problems and cardiovascular diseases. 2. They can reduce reliance on UPFs Because the food cooks far quicker in an air fryer, it makes it easier to prepare meals from scratch without the time commitment of conventional cooking, Hobson says. 'That might help reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), especially ready prepared foods that can be high in saturated fat, salt and a variety of additives,' he explains. 'You could easily make your own version of popular convenience foods at home in no time, things like homemade fish fingers, falafel or veggie nuggets.' Air fryer recipes have gone viral across the internet, with websites and influencers dedicated to promoting healthy fuss-free meals. However, air fryers are, of course, only as healthy as the food you put in them, Stanford warns. 'I saw a recipe recently for an air fryer cheese toastie, where two slices of white bread were coated in butter, and filled with two different types of cheese. Just because it's cooked in an air fryer, it doesn't make it healthy.' 3. Food may be more nutritious Air fryers may be better at preserving the natural nutrients in food, especially certain vitamins sensitive to heat and oil, Hobson explains. A 2024 study in the Foods journal found that many vitamins are sensitive to high temperatures, meaning that during frying, they can be lost to the oil. Vitamin E is particularly sensitive to this. In another study in the International Journal of Nutrition and Food Engineering, researchers discovered that salting and frying swordfish in olive oil led to a significant decrease in vitamin B. As air frying is quicker and uses hot air rather than lots of oil, natural vitamins and nutrients are likely to be better retained, which is beneficial for our health. 4. Lower levels of certain chemicals Acrylamide is a chemical substance formed when starchy foods, such as potatoes, are cooked at high temperatures. It is a natural byproduct of the cooking process and has always been present in our diet. However, it's been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a probable human carcinogen, Hobson explains, and has caused cancer in laboratory animals when consumed in high volumes. While air fried foods still contain acrylamide, the levels are likely lower than deep frying or roasting in a very hot oven, Hobson says. One study in the Journal of Food Science found that air frying potatoes may reduce acrylamide content by up to 90% compared to conventional deep fat frying. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises aiming for a golden yellow colour or lighter when frying, baking, or roasting starchy foods to reduce acrylamide consumption. Does air frying pose any health risks? 1. Potential dangers of non-stick linings Many older air fryers are coated with non-stick materials such as Teflon (PTFE) or bisphenol-A (BPA). The latter has been linked to health issues including respiratory irritation and eye problems. You're unlikely to consume large amounts of these chemicals unless the non-stick lining of the air fryer becomes damaged and releases them. This could be the result of a metal utensil scratching the non-stick surface or the air fryer being heated to extreme temperatures. To avoid this risk, Jenna Hope, a registered nutritionist, says to avoid using a knife or sharp utensil on the air fryer lining. 'If you do need to remove food from the lining always use a silicone utensil to prevent scratching,' she says. When cleaning the air fryer, use a soft sponge and soapy water rather than putting the individual parts in the dishwasher, she adds. You can also mitigate risk by using a non-toxic silicone lining, which can be bought separately and is removable, to prevent food becoming stuck. Advertisement Advertise with NZME. Many air fryers are now designed to be BPA-free, with manufacturers opting for stainless steel or high-quality plastics instead. 2. Oil can become rancid and build up unhealthy fats Just like leaving an oven or deep fat fryer unwashed for a long time, failing to regularly clean your air fryer can result in dangerous oil build-up, explains Hope. 'Oil or natural fats from food can become rancid and build up if you're not cleaning your air fryer properly,' she says. 'The rancidity is only going to ramp up if you continue to cook and not properly clean after.' This can result in a build-up of trans fats, a type of unsaturated fat which is considered harmful to health. Excessive consumption of trans fats can lead to high cholesterol and heart problems. 'Just make sure you're always properly cleaning your air fryer after use,' Hope urges. 3. They may encourage overeating While speed and convenience are among the air fryer's biggest benefits, they may also lead to unnecessary snacking and overeating, Hobson explains, especially with foods that are easy to eat in excess such as chips. He urges people to be mindful and continue to eat in moderation, not using the ease of air frying as an excuse to overeat. 'It's worth keeping an eye on how often you're reaching for the air fryer and what you're putting in it,' he says. Air fryers vs the conventional oven The main differences with a standard oven is that air fryers are smaller which means the airflow is more restricted and they can cook food faster, Hope explains. Most foods that you cook in an oven you can cook in an air fryer – with their capacity being the main limiting factor. They require less oil than oven cooking which means the same food can be cooked in a relatively healthier way, with less added calories and fat, Hobson says. What should you not cook in an air fryer? 'For certain dishes like fatty cuts of meat or slow-cooked meals you will probably get a better flavour and texture from longer, slower cooking methods,' says Hobson. Slow cooking may also better preserve the nutrients in these foods as they are cooked at a lower temperature for a longer period. Also consider cooking leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, in your normal way, as the air fryer fan can cause them to fly around and burn. It means they require more oil to ensure they remain in the basket and don't shrivel anyway, so the potential health benefits of air frying may be lost. Finally, one study in the Journal of Food Science that assessed the impact of cooking sardines in an air fryer found that their healthy fat content (poly-unsaturated fats) decreased. Meanwhile, cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) slightly increased – these may negatively affect cholesterol levels. Therefore, when you're next cooking sardines, consider doing so in the oven or on the hob – or, air fry them with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, which appeared to help reduce these damaging effects. So which is the best way to cook: by air, or our old friend, the conventional oven? 'It may be easier to use an oven or hob when cooking for a crowd just for the sake of space and efficiency, whilst air fryers are ideal for small portions or quick meals,' says Hobson, with an added health bonus.
Telegraph
29-04-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
Are air fryers actually healthy?
Whether you want to cook a quick jacket potato, crispy fries, a roast dinner for the family, or even a batch of fudgy brownies, look no further than the miniature oven on your kitchen worktop. Traditional ovens are old news as this culinary upstart, the air fryer, promises a healthier way to prepare all your favourite foods. And it's rare to find a kitchen without one these days. They're the third most used kitchen appliance (just behind microwaves and toasters) and almost 60 per cent of people in the UK now own one, according to a Good Food Nation study. Jamie Oliver is a huge fan, and with both a TV series and cookbook dedicated to the appliance, he claims they have 'well and truly earned their place in our kitchens'. But how do they really compare to the conventional oven – and are they as healthy as claimed? How do air fryers work? Air fryers are like miniature fan ovens, only they're much smaller and the fan is much stronger, explains Dell Stanford, a senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation. A heating element sits at the top of the fryer and the food goes into a perforated drawer at the bottom. When heat is emitted into the main chamber, a powerful fan blows hot air around the food to cook it. 'Because they're much smaller than a conventional oven, they tend to heat up and cook food much more quickly,' Stanford explains. 'They're more energy efficient and cost-effective.' Ninja claims its 'Foodi Dual Zone' air fryer cooks up to 75 per cent faster than fan ovens, whilst the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 model uses up to 80 per cent less energy. 'The downside is that because they're smaller and have less capacity than a conventional oven, you can only really cook food for one or two people. When they're overfilled, they don't tend to work as well,' Stanford says. What are the health benefits of air fryers? 1. You cook with less oil Whilst food cooked in an air fryer still benefits from a small amount of oil, roughly a teaspoon for a batch of chips or half a tablespoon for four chicken breasts, it is far less than what is required for oven cooking or deep-frying. One study in the Journal of Food Science proved that French fries cooked using an air fryer was substantially lower in fat. This is because it crisps up food by circulating hot air, rather than immersing it in oil. Air fryer meals are therefore comparatively lower in fat and calories (as one gram of oil is equivalent to around nine calories). 'Whilst 100g of deep-fried chips can contain around 15g of fat, air fried versions may have as little as 3-5g,' explains Rob Hobson, a nutritionist and author of Unprocess Your Family Life. 'They're particularly helpful if you're watching your weight or cutting back on saturated fat.' The health risks of excessive oil intake are well established. A diet high in saturated fats has been consistently linked to increased LDL cholesterol levels which can lead to heart problems and cardiovascular diseases. 2. They can reduce reliance on UPFs Because the food cooks far quicker in an air fryer, it makes it easier to prepare meals from scratch without the time commitment of conventional cooking, Hobson says. 'That might help reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), especially ready prepared foods that can be high in saturated fat, salt and a variety of additives,' he explains. 'You could easily make your own version of popular convenience foods at home in no time, things like homemade fish fingers, falafel or veggie nuggets.' Air fryer recipes have gone viral across the Internet, with websites and influencers dedicated to promoting healthy fuss-free meals. However, air fryers are, of course, only as healthy as the food you put in them, Stanford warns. 'I saw a recipe recently for an air fryer cheese toastie, where two slices of white bread were coated in butter, and filled with two different types of cheese. Just because it's cooked in an air fryer, it doesn't make it healthy.' 3. Food may be more nutritious Air fryers may be better at preserving the natural nutrients in food, especially certain vitamins sensitive to heat and oil, Hobson explains. A 2024 study in the Foods journal found that many vitamins are sensitive to high temperatures, meaning that during frying, they can be lost to the oil. Vitamin E is particularly sensitive to this. In another study in the International Journal of Nutrition and Food Engineering, researchers discovered that salting and frying swordfish in olive oil led to a significant decrease in vitamin B. As air frying is quicker and uses hot air rather than lots of oil, natural vitamins and nutrients are likely to be better retained, which is beneficial for our health. 4. Lower levels of certain chemicals Acrylamide is a chemical substance formed when starchy foods, such as potatoes, are cooked at high temperatures. It is a natural by-product of the cooking process and has always been present in our diet. However, it's been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a probable human carcinogen, Hobson explains, and has caused cancer in laboratory animals when consumed in high volumes. Whilst air fried foods still contain acrylamide, the levels are likely lower than deep frying or roasting in a very hot oven, Hobson says. One study in the Journal of Food Science found that air frying potatoes may reduce acrylamide content by up to 90 per cent compared to conventional deep fat frying. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises aiming for a golden yellow colour or lighter when frying, baking, or roasting starchy foods to reduce acrylamide consumption. Does air frying pose any health risks? 1. Potential dangers of non-stick linings Many older air fryers are coated with non-stick materials such as Teflon (PTFE) or bisphenol-A (BPA). The latter has been linked to health issues including respiratory irritation and eye problems. You're unlikely to consume large amounts of these chemicals unless the non-stick lining of the air fryer becomes damaged and releases them. This could be the result of a metal utensil scratching the non-stick surface or the air fryer being heated to extreme temperatures. To avoid this risk, Jenna Hope, a registered nutritionist, says to avoid using a knife or sharp utensil on the air fryer lining. 'If you do need to remove food from the lining always use a silicone utensil to prevent scratching,' she says. When cleaning the air fryer, use a soft sponge and soapy water rather than putting the individual parts in the dishwasher, she adds. You can also mitigate risk by using a non-toxic silicone lining, which can be bought separately and is removable, to prevent food becoming stuck. Many air fryers are now designed to be BPA-free, with manufacturers opting for stainless steel or high-quality plastics instead. 2. Oil can become rancid and build up unhealthy fats Just like leaving an oven or deep fat fryer unwashed for a long time, failing to regularly clean your air fryer can result in dangerous oil build-up, explains Hope. 'Oil or natural fats from food can become rancid and build up if you're not cleaning your air fryer properly,' she says. 'The rancidity is only going to ramp up if you continue to cook and not properly clean after.' This can result in a build-up of trans fats, a type of unsaturated fat which is considered harmful to health. Excessive consumption of trans fats can lead to high cholesterol and heart problems. 'Just make sure you're always properly cleaning your air fryer after use,' Hope urges. 3. They may encourage overeating Whilst speed and convenience are among the air fryer's biggest benefits, they may also lead to unnecessary snacking and overeating, Hobson explains, especially with foods that are easy to eat in excess such as chips. He urges people to be mindful and continue to eat in moderation, not using the ease of air frying as an excuse to overeat. 'It's worth keeping an eye on how often you're reaching for the air fryer and what you're putting in it,' he says. Air fryers vs the conventional oven The main differences with a standard oven is that air fryers are smaller which means the airflow is more restricted and they can cook food faster, Hope explains. Most foods that you cook in an oven you can cook in an air fryer – with their capacity being the main limiting factor. They require less oil than oven cooking which means the same food can be cooked in a relatively healthier way, with less added calories and fat, Hobson says. What should you not cook in an air fryer? 'For certain dishes like fatty cuts of meat or slow-cooked meals you will probably get a better flavour and texture from longer, slower cooking methods,' says Hobson. Slow cooking may also better preserve the nutrients in these foods as they are cooked at a lower temperature for a longer period. Also consider cooking leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, in your normal way, as the air fryer fan can cause them to fly around and burn. It means they require more oil to ensure they remain in the basket and don't shrivel anyway, so the potential health benefits of air frying may be lost. Finally, one study in the Journal of Food Science that assessed the impact of cooking sardines in an air fryer found that their healthy fat content (poly-unsaturated fats) decreased. Meanwhile, cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) slightly increased – these may negatively affect cholesterol levels. Therefore, when you're next cooking sardines, consider doing so in the oven or on the hob – or, air fry them with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, which appeared to help reduce these damaging effects. So which is the best way to cook: by air, or our old friend, the conventional oven? 'It may be easier to use an oven or hob when cooking for a crowd 'just for the sake of space and efficiency, whilst air fryers are ideal for small portions or quick meals,' says Hobson, with an added health bonus.
Buzz Feed
07-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
31 Things From Amazon That Just Want To Make Your Life Easier In The Kitchen
1. An egg timer so you end up with perfectly ~egg-cellent~ boiled eggs — whether you want them soft, jammy, or hard! Promising review:"I've used this product for many years (at least 15 years and I honestly think it's been more years than that). I get perfect eggs every time. It's so easy to use! I add it in to the cold water at the same time that I put my eggs to boil and the red part starts turning a dark color from the outside in as the timing correlates to whether your eggs have cooked long enough to be soft, medium or hard. I wash this easily with a soapy sponge (never used in a dishwasher). Two friends were recently fascinated by this so I just got them these as little gifts. I was sure to get them this exact brand as it's what I've always used. I have never had to replace it and it has consistently gotten a lot of use over the years." — Mezzanine Daze 2. A *crab-tastic* silicone spoon holder that clips to the pot lid and quite literally pinches the utensil in place with its cute little claws! Yep, this is a need not a want. Promising review:"OMGeeeezy!! I'm obsessed with this, it's SO cute and it totally goes with my coastal kitchen theme. Make sure you have it on the right side, otherwise, it will not hold the spoon. Now, I want all the colors. Love this, very happy with my purchase!! 10/10 recommend. 🦀🦀🦀" — ThinkPink 3. A high-powered frother because this little baby can whip up a fancy foaming latte sans espresso machine — meaning you can basically transform your kitchen into a cozy cafe. Promising review:"Pretty awesome! I've only made one drink but I'm super excited for future matcha lattes and practicing latte art. Also! My coffee shop costs like $5, almost $6 for a latte. I'm lactose intolerant so every latte I have to pay $0.70 more. I just hate that. Overall this will save me money and I get my cozy, caffeine fix in the comfort of my own home!" — RobinFromCalifornia 4. A cleverly designed pancake dispenser bottle so anyone, no matter what their age or culinary skill level, can quickly and easily whip up some perfectly formed flapjacks. Although feel free to get creative with other fun shapes too! Promising review:"If you're thinking of buying this item, DO IT! I originally purchased it because I was tired of scooping my batter with a measuring cup, dripping along the way, just to have oblong-shaped pancakes. This thing makes the perfect round cakes with no mess! I was skeptical about it holding as much batter as we usually use; enough for four people. But it was perfect when we doubled the original recipe! It has a built-in stand when you add your ingredients through the bottom and clean up is a breeze. Don't think twice; just buy it. You won't regret it!" — Michelle W. 5. An Instant Vortex Plus air fryer that will let you whip up delicious foods with practically just the touch of a button. (Seriously!) Plus, it can also broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, and reheat just as easily. Wowza! Promising review:"Husband and I are LOVING this. Two trays to fill, and so much easier when you can just slide them in and out, not like some other air fryers where you drop the food down into a compartment. We also don't bother turning food after noticing it made zero difference, so twice as easy! Easy to clean and super quiet compared to others I've seen in action like Cosori. Five-minute toasted sandwiches, great chicken wings and more." — KonaKathie 6. And a magnetic air fryer cheat sheet to make cooking with your new air fryer even speedier. This handy guide lists out cooking times and temperatures for all sorts of popular food items, including meats, vegetables, frozen foods, and more, so you don't have to waste all that time sifting through online recipe blogs. Promising review:"I was looking for an easy way to access the cook times for various foods you can cook in an air fryer. I had received one as a gift and used it a lot, always keeping the cooking guide that came with the air fryer close at hand. However, the handy cooking guide is made of paper, and unlike the magnetic 'cheat sheet,' it would get lost, crumpled, and was not easy to find recipes in. These magnetic sheets fit on the front of my refrigerator and cover all the foods anyone would most often use the air fryer for cooking, they are easy to read, and find the cook times. I would recommend this to anyone owning an air fryer for the convenience, even if you do not use the air fryer every day — these sheets may encourage you to use the air fryer more often, and see how delicious food prepared in it can be." — archie 7. An Oxo microfiber dusting wand since it's the perfect size and shape for getting at all those practically impossible-to-reach spots, like under the fridge and stove. Promising review:"Love it! This is the most wonderful device. It did go under the washer, dryer, fridge, and stove, some reviewers reported it wouldn't go under theirs, my stove looked like there was no hope, but it went under. They're all about 4-years-old. It is also great for under heavy furniture. No more moving heavy pieces. Absolutely everything stuck to it, nothing it collected fell away or shed. You cannot shake it off outside either. Therefore, all the dust collected went in the washer. And sure enough, everything washed off. Not sure how I feel about this, so I ran a cycle with soap and hot water, which probably was a waste of time and water, but I felt better, enough that I will definitely continue use. It absolutely did everything advertised very nicely." — Sunshine 8. A TikTok-famous veggie chopper that'll make slicing and chopping all those veggies a piece. of. cake. The bottom part even acts as a storage container too! Amazon Check out a TikTok of the veggie chopper in action. Promising review:"I finally decided it was time to try one of these. I always keep chopped bell peppers and onions in my freezer ready for fajitas, chili, etc. I dreaded chopping everything so much that sometimes I would even throw away bell peppers because they went bad before I got to them. So, for the loss of all of those peppers, I decided to compensate by getting one of them. What would take quite a while to do in the past now just takes a few minutes. And all the pieces look uniform and will cook much more evenly! I wish I would have done this so long ago!" — Paula Bond 9. A sandwich cutter and sealer, aka a DIY-decruster, if your kid has inherited your genetic childhood aversion to crusts. We all remember how great those Uncrustable sandwiches were (and still are), and now you can make your own right at home! Promising review:"AMAZING!!! I could not be happier with this sandwich cutter and sealer set. The design is absolutely genius and works flawlessly every time. It's recommended you use fresh bread that is large enough in diameter to fit the cutter, but I had neither of those things in my pantry. Instead I used a week-old loaf of sourdough I was about to throw out to test this product that was also slightly too small. I simply used a rolling pin to flatten the bread out a bit first and the cutter fit perfectly. I tested all three shapes (though only included pictures of two) and all three were awesome. Each test sandwich was sealed tightly with no rips to the bread. The instructions were easy to follow and it took less than a minute start to finish for each sandwich. I've used other brands with horrible results but this set rocks!! The plastic of each piece is thick and of good quality, I look forward to using this set for many years to come!" — Sam 10. A bread dispenser box designed to keep loaves of sandwich bread fresh for days, a true game-changer for folks who find themselves constantly having to throw out the last quarter or so of the loaf when it goes stale. Promising review:"To use it, you open the bread bag and place it into the container. It has holes in the bottom so air underneath the bag can enter/escape. Then you pull the top of the bag over the outside of the container. That makes it so when you put the plastic top on the container it is air tight. My first loaf of bread in the container I didn't really use, so after only a sandwich or two it sat in my cabinet for about three weeks. I had bought bagels the same day that weren't in the container and they had gone moldy a while earlier so I had assumed the loaf would be bad. I left it longer than I probably would've because of that. When I opened it the bread was still good and soft. I haven't left any loaf as long since that one but I haven't had any stale or moldy bread yet. So if nothing else, it does in fact keep bread longer than if you bought it and left it in the bag. It's shaped for normal bread 🍞. If you buy bread that isn't the typical shape, like those oval shaped ones, they won't fit." — Evan 11. A stain remover gel so you can clear out all the gunk and grossness from tile, sinks, grout, and more with absolutely zero scrubbing on your part. Seriously! Just squeeze this on, and within 6-8 hours, you'll have restored your kitchen to its former sparkling glory. Promising review:"Wow! I would give this 10 stars if I could. We've had issues for a few years with the caulking behind the handle of our kitchen faucet turning black from mildew. We've scrubbed with what seems like a million different products, with no luck. We were actually just talking about ripping out the caulking and doing a total replacement. But, my husband saw this online the other day and decided to order it. Almost immediately when he applied it, you could see it was starting to work. We left it on overnight and the black is COMPLETELY GONE! It's incredible. 1,000% worth the (small) investment. Seriously — just buy this. It's amazing!!" — Nicole D. 12. A Vitamix blender because this thing is a beast. It purées, crushes, blends, and mixes more powerfully and smoothly than pretty much any other kitchen appliance out there. The hype is real. FYI, this model features a large 64-ounce blending container, so it's perfect for whipping up family-sized batches! Promising review:"I love the consistency of this blender. Every smoothie is professionally blended as if I had purchased it. This will definitely help me improve my health. Very easy to use and clean. I couldn't ask for more!" — Dyuanna Calhoun 13. A waterproof nonslip kitchen mat that's extra thick and cushioned to make sure long bouts spent doing dishes or cooking aren't uncomfortable on the joints. With this under your feet, nothing will stop you from making and enjoying all those yummy and comforting meals. Promising review:"These kitchen rugs are amazing! All I can say is they not only look great in my kitchen, but they are comfortable and are so much better on my arthritic knees than our other rugs. I'm 35 and do all the cooking for my wife and kids. I hate shoes in the kitchen but also hate no rugs. Then to make it worse, most rugs must be cleaned in the wash. These clean with a broom and mop like the rest of the floors. The pictures and description are exactly what I got. They do come rolled tight, so give it about 12–24 hours to completely flatten out and puff up." — Curtis B. 14. An Instant Pot ready to take up the position of head chef in your household. Save yourself the hassle and let this do the (pressure) cooking, roasting, broiling, steaming, and sautéing for you! I love my Instant Pot all year long and use it at least once a week. During colder months, I tend to make a new soup, chili, or stew every week, and in warmer months, I use it for roasting veggies, baking potatoes, cooking rice, and more! It's such an easy and quick way to meal prep for the week, or portion and freeze for easy weeknight meals, which is ~super clutch~ when you're a busy gal like me. Promising review:"This product is my best friend and I would marry it and grow old with it if I could. I've put pork loins, potatoes, yellow bundt cakes, rice, corn on the cob (look up INSTANT POT MILK CORN ON COB and you will never eat it any other way again!). I've made pierogies, lasagna, apple dump cake, a whole chicken, bone broth, chicken noodle soup... and more. This is all in less than a month. I'm eating healthier. Eating out less. Cleanup is easy. The food tastes awesome. The pork loin never dried out after it sat on the serving tray." — sugabuga 15. A pack of dishwasher cleaning tablets because a dishwasher doesn't make your life much easier if it's not actually cleaning the dishes! BUT, if you run a load with one of these tablets thrown in, everything will start coming out nice and sparkly again! Promising review:"I had tried lots of white vinegar for two cycles in my 20-year-old dishwasher for the cloudy and powdery dinginess it had started doing and it only helped about 30%. We have very hard water. This zapped the buildup and glass is clear again and colored plastics no longer have the powdery-like coating. So glad I took a chance on this!" — J. Holden 16. A compact cutlery organizer if you're tired of digging around in the drawer for the utensil you actually need. Kitchen cutlery chaos, begone! Promising review:"I don't have many drawers, and the silverware drawer seems like there should be so much more I see these weird silverware trays. I figure, why not? I love them! I got two and put one on each side of the drawer. This allowed me to put random things in between them that I had a hard time finding a place for. I should probably mention that I have a service for 16, and it is REALLY, REALLY heavy Oneida flatware. I have a standard size drawer and even the height is fine. They also stay where the heck you put them, even with drawer liner and the way that my husband slams those drawers shut! All around a great purchase!" — Stephanie M. Campbell 17. A garlic press that works through a gentle rocking motion rather than by loading the cloves in and smushing the garlic out (like more traditional presses). Why is this design far superior? Well, it's not only way easier to use but also to clean. And it comes with tools for peeling off the shell and scraping the minced garlic off the surface! Promising review:"I've tried a few garlic presses and this one is my favorite (so far). I start with the peeler that takes off the outer shell. Then, I use the crusher. The handle on the crusher makes it easy to apply pressure to the garlic. I do a few at a time. I push down gently to puncture the garlic and then rock the rocker. It is amazing how fast the garlic gets minced. The little scraper is a nice touch, too. Then, the cleanup is rather easy, too. I do find that I have to examine the crusher to ensure any residual pieces are cleaned away. Love it!" — C Gin 18. A bottle of Goo Gone, which is a liquid kitchen degreaser that effortlessly removes even the most stubborn and caked-on greasy build-up from stoves, cabinets, ovens, and anything else that needs it. (Great at removing the sticky film left behind by labels on glass and stoneware, too!) Promising review:"I WISH I COULD BUY THIS BY THE GALLON! Removes grease and more from so many things with no scrubbing! If something is stubborn, I just spray this stuff on, let it sit a few minutes, My boyfriend had some kitchenware that I thought I might need to replace due to built-up grease on the bottoms. Sprayed this on and waited a few minutes. With just a bit of elbow grease, the old buildup came off. NO need to buy new pots! When my mom saw this stuff work, she had me order her some!!!!!" — DoubleL 19. A silicone freezer tray and lid featuring four large one-cup wells. In other words, the perfect size for portioning out single servings of meals, soups, ready-to-mix smoothies, and more. Promising review:"My freezer is so much more organized now. Gone are the days of having to defrost an entire bag of chicken broth for one cup for a recipe. I now have perfectly portioned 1/2-cup and 1-cup blocks ready to go. They fit easily in freezer bags, take up less space, and make me incredibly happy. There was a lot of attention to detail put into the design and I particularly appreciate the wire inside the rim that holds everything steady: no more worrying about spilling all the liquid on the way to the freezer. Just a fantastic product all around. I purchased this and a cheaper version from another manufacturer at the same time, but returned the other product — this one is definitely worth the added cost." — Kate 20. A bristled blade brush cleaner for a super safe and effective way to clean sharp knives, utensils, or any other kitchen gadget that's hard to clean by hand. Promising review:"This has been a great gadget for me, I use this for washing more than knives. My hands are not always cooperative so finding a better way to wash sharp objects was a great thing for me. It's a simple design soft bristled brushes on the inside of a hard plastic shell. A simple concept that really works. I have used this for washing wooden utensils, rubber spatulas, large spoons, cooking forks. If it fits, I wash it. A few drops of dish soap straight onto the wet bristles and you're good to go. I don't expect this to last forever, but I would buy it again." — 7KKids&Me 21. A seven-piece set of airtight plastic food storage containers featuring easy-lock lids and labels, to help you transform your pantry mayhem into a masterpiece of kitchen organization. 😌 Promising review:"I LOVE these containers. I've had several brands of storage containers, including the pop-tops, and these, by far, are my favorite. They are easy to open (just lift the loop, and it opens) and sturdy. Amazon had them for a great price compared to other retailers. They also shipped, arrived super quickly, and came with labels and a chalk marker. I suggest writing on the labels and letting them dry for a few minutes before applying them to the containers themselves to prevent smudging. My young kids have no trouble opening and closing the containers, which is a definite plus for me. I ordered three sets for a pantry project and plan on getting more." — jnstainb Price: $22.99+ for a 7-piece set (available in two colors and larger 14- and 21-piece sets) 22. A garbage disposal foaming cleaner if you've been searching for a bleach-free way to clear away all the gunk and buildup from the drain. And yes, this should rid the kitchen of that horrible odor emanating from the sink and replace it with a fresh lemony scent instead! Amazon Promising review:"We purchased a house in August 2019 and I've noticed that the garage disposal wasn't smelling great. Kept forgetting to do something about it until recently. I purchased these because they seemed to be a good value. I followed the easy directions and was not prepared for the amount of gunk the blue foam pushed out of both sinks. It was gross! After the blue foam died down, I cleaned my sinks and they smelled much better. Almost wanted to do it again, but I'll wait a bit. Highly recommended!" — Sissy39 Price: $3.78 for four tablets (available in four pack sizes) 23. A digital food thermometer because the key to preparing perfectly moist and tender meat is to cook it to the exact right temperature, which this will conveniently measure and display for you in real time. Amazon Promising review:"A great thermometer. I can even see the ambient temperature with it. The sharp point goes in easily, and seeing the accurate temperature fast can't be beaten. Except for the protective sleeve.... it protects the thermometer and is easy to clean. You can even clip it to your shirt, and with the ring, I actually have it hanging in a conspicuous place in my kitchen, so I don't have to keep diving into the utensil drawer. It sure exceeded my expectations." — B.C. Poppe Price: $11.99 (also available in a two-pack) 24. A set of coffee mug organizers if you love your huge collection of cozy mugs but are having a hard time storing them all. This adjustable stacking device will make it easy for you to save space and fit all your mugs neatly in the cabinet (so yes, you can totally keep them all). Amazon Promising review:"I've been using these for about a month now. I didn't even know that these existed 'til I saw them and tried them out. I was a bit skeptical that they would hold my variety of mug sizes on top of each other securely but I figured for the cost it was worth a shot. The mugs hold steady, even when stacking smaller mugs on top of larger ones. The diameter adjusts smoothly and the material is stronger than it looks. Now I can take out, or put in, my coffee mugs without worrying of knocking any over!" — NJ Buyer Price: $24.99 (available in three colors) 25. A pack of green produce bags because storing your fruits and veggies in these can help extend their shelf life and keep them fresher for longer, whether you keep them in the fridge or on the counter. Promising review:"These bags are great. I am single so don't always use up my fruits and veggies very fast. These bags definitely keep them fresh for a noticeably longer time. I actually rinse them out and reused them multiple times and I've still gone through a couple of packages of them over the last few years because they work so well. I put fruits and veggies in them as soon as I get them home, unwashed (and dry if they were damp when I bought them)." — shopper chick Price: $14.99+ (available in three pack sizes) 26. Or, a pair of Bluapple freshness savers which *also* work some pretty intense food-preserving magic — for up to three months. Throw one in your produce drawer, and you'll be amazed at how much longer your food lasts before spoiling. Amazon Promising review:"I love awesome little items like the Bluapple that serve a useful purpose and make life a little easier. I put a Bluapple in each of my bottom fridge drawers where I keep my fruits and veggies and I have definitely noticed a difference. My fruits and veggies remain fresh and last longer before going bad. This saves me money and although I compost any fruits or veggies that go bad, I prefer not to have perfectly good fruit go bad before we had a chance to eat it. I am going to buy more to place throughout the fridge since we are buying and eating more fruits and veggies this summer. I also appreciate how the contents inside can be fed to a houseplant as fertilizer every three months when adding a fresh refill." — Mariposa Price: $15.99 27. A super handy clip-on strainer to help ensure you don't lose a single noodle when it comes time to drain the excess water — this attaches directly to the rim of the pot to prevent any such tragedies. Promising review:"Pouring a scalding hot pot of pasta into a colander brings back memories of said colander tipping over and pasta spilling all over the sink or the bottom portion of pasta sitting in a shallow pool of water you just poured into the sink. Not to mention the splash back when the water hits the rim or side of the colander just perfectly. This product relieved me of having to worry about those catastrophic events. Just snap onto your pot while still having two hands to control the pour." — JC Price: $9.99+ (available in seven colors) 28. A bestselling microwavable pasta cooker so you need never waste time staring at the pot just waiting for the water to boil. I'm literally so impatient, I'm already sold. This highly popular product can make one to four servings of pasta, individual servings of rice, lasagna noodles, and gluten-free pasta. Plus, the lid doubles as a sieve to help you drain the pasta after it's done cooking (which only takes a few minutes). Promising review: 'I love my Fasta Pasta so much that I bought a bunch more to gift to family and friends. Making pasta meals with this microwave product is a breeze…much easier and more convenient than the traditional way of cooking spaghetti, penne, macaroni, etc., and the pasta is perfect every time!' — Laura Burnham Price: $23.44 29. A pair of countertop gap covers to keep crumbs, spills, and other kitchen messiness from getting in the single spot you can't easily clean: the crevice between the stove and the counter! Now you can just wipe this down instead. Promising review:"If you don't have these, buy them. It helps to prevent the crud that falls between your stove and counter and it is a lifesaver if you don't like cleaning that junk!" — Virginia Bronco Fan Price: $7.99 (available in two colors) 30. An Icebreaker, aka a clever ice tray that doubles as an ice dispenser. Not only is it way easier to just squeeze and shoot some ice cubes out of this thing, but the smart design *also* eliminates the need to touch the ice cubes with your fingers, which can potentially spread germs. Amazon Icebreaker is a Texas-based small business established in 2020 by Danish engineer Kim Jensen. Promising review:"We have a small freezer and no ice maker and have been using fiddly trays for years. Icebreaker Pop has changed everything! No more leaky ice trays spilling in the freezer (or on the way to the freezer), and no ice picking up weird smells and tastes from the freezer. Icebreaker Pop is self-contained and easy to use: you fill it up with water (but be careful not to overfill because it does expand as it freezes. Physics!), seal the top, and put it in the freezer. Once it's frozen, you lay it on a flat surface, press down hard on it a couple of times on each side to crack the ice, and pull it apart with both handles. You now have 18 cubes of clean ice that dispense from the opening, eliminating the need to touch the cubes as you add them to your glass. The cubes are a little smaller than from regular ice trays, but that's okay with us. Icebreaker Pop is also cool-looking and easy to clean; it's made up of three easy-to-separate pieces that are a snap to wash thoroughly. Very happy with this product!" — Leah Koepp Price: $19.99+ (available in six colors and various multipacks) 31. A heat-resistant meat and potato masher because you'll find it's a whole lot less work to use this handy tool than trying to smush everything with a fork or traditional masher. Work smarter, not harder, my chefs! Promising review: "Best gadget ever. Saw this on TikTok and so happy I bought it. Works well with all ground meat. Got all my friends to buy one and they all love it." — Kendra Price: $6.95 (available in two colors) Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Yahoo
28-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The best Amazon Spring Sale kitchen deals: Save big on 10 products from HexClad, KitchenAid, Yeti and more
As Yahoo's resident professional baker turned deals writer, I probably think about dough more than the average person. I'm not referring to dough of the cookie or bread variety (though I certainly love both). I'm talkin' about moolah, and how to avoid spending a lot of it. More specifically, how to score quality kitchen gear for less, which is why I've spent the week browsing Amazon Spring Sale deals. These types of savings events can be hit or miss, but I was pleased to find some of my favorite items (and a few that I've been eyeing) majorly marked down. Several of my picks are down to their lowest prices ever, making this a sale that, dare I say, rivals Prime Day? Because I used to spend all day, every day working with food (and currently test and write about kitchen tools), I know what makes a quality product and whether it's worth its price tag. With that in mind, not all "deals" are legit; in fact, I'd argue that most are about as exciting as a soggy French fry. Speaking of foods that should be crunchy, this Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer is on sale for its best price in over a year at nearly 50% off. And if you want to slice and dice like Ina Garten, this 10-piece knife set from her favorite brand is down to a record low. Those are just a couple of my top 10 kitchen deal picks, but there's no knowing when they'll be eighty-sixed. Better scoop 'em up before they're toast. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
I'm a pro baker: These are the 10 best kitchen deals to add to your Amazon cart
Hello, it's Yahoo's professional-baker-turned-deal-hunter here to save you some dough. That's right; I've spent the morning browsing Amazon deals on all things kitchen-related so you don't knead to. What's in the mix? Well, I was bowled over by seeing sought-after brands like Stanley, Yeti, KitchenAid and Breville on sale — some items for their all-time lowest prices. As someone who used to spend all day, every day working with food (and now makes a living writing about kitchen tools), I know what makes a quality product and whether it's worth its price tag. With that in mind, not all "deals" are legit; in fact, I'd argue that most are about as exciting as a soggy French fry. You won't have that problem with this Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer, on sale for its best price in nearly a year. And while we're on the subject of crispy foods, the countertop pizza maker that won my parents' hearts is at a near-record low. Those are just a couple of my top 10 kitchen deal picks, but there's no knowing when they'll be eighty-sixed. Better scoop 'em up before they're toast. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
