You always need to take this step to ensure you don’t get food poisoning from your air fryer

Food experts have said that despite the popularity of air fryers, many people are unaware of the potential dangers like salmonella lurking inside the drawer

Though many Brits have adopted the air fryer as an essential piece of kitchen kit in recent years, some are unaware of the dangers lurking inside.

One food expert has explained that the appliance needs special attention to make sure it doesn't pick up any nasty germs. The air fryer has proved indispensable for Brits looking to get their frozen chips crispier or those looking for a perfectly cooked chicken breast. It’s also been claimed that the device is a cost-friendly alternative to traditional means.

However, there is a common mistake that could lead to you ending up in hospital if you do not follow it. Many people treat the air fryer like a microwave, meaning they fail to clean them between uses. This presents some pretty serious risks and could cause dire health consequences.

As an example, if you were to not cook a piece of salmonella-infected chicken properly, the bacteria would stay in the drawer and could then infect another piece of food. Salmonella remains a risk on a dry surface for up to 32 hours.

Food safety blog editor Candess Zona-Mendola, who also works as a paralegal for a food safety law firm, told Tyla that you “put yourself at much higher risk of food contamination” if you fail to clean your fryer in between uses.

Janilyn Hutchings, a food scientist at StateFoodSafety, echoed Candess’s concerns, explaining how “old food particles and germs will build up in the basket and contaminate the food you put in it. Aim to clean your air fryer after every meal that's cooked in it. It might seem like a big mess, but it's quite easy.”

The next question is what is the best way of cleaning your air fryer to banish the germs? Candess said you should douse the draw in “hot water with a bit of dishwashing liquid”. She added: "Let the basket soak as long as it needs so you don't have to scrub off baked-on food. Three minutes of your time will keep your air fryer fresh [and] your tummy safe, and your kitchen won't stink."