The air fryer has overtaken the hob, microwave and oven to become Britain's most-used cooking appliance. A survey of 2,000 adults found 64% use the device more frequently than their traditional cooker, rising to 75% among Gen Z.
Usage and habits
The study revealed 57% use their air fryer more than they did two years ago, with one in 10 admitting it has been at least a month since they switched on their oven.
Quicker cooking times (60%) emerged as the primary reason households now favour their air fryer over their standard cooker, alongside convenience (54%).
Cost and efficiency
The research also showed running costs (90%) and energy efficiency (88%) were deemed crucial when deciding which appliance to use.
A spokesperson for Utilita, which commissioned the research to highlight its Power Price List—showing the cost to run a wide variety of household items—said: “Unlike other flash in the pan trends, our nation’s love for the air fryer isn’t waning.
“It seems it is one of the most popular inventions from recent years, with owners championing the ease of the device, as well as its low running costs and energy efficiency.
“It’s hard to look back and imagine modern kitchen life without one.”
Impact on cooking habits
The study found a quarter would be gutted if their air fryer broke down—and 19% would drop everything and replace it straight away.
What's more, 37% of owners cook more than ever before because of the gadget, as 32% believe it has transformed how they prepare food at home. And 24% admitted they've altered meal plans purely based on the space available in their mini cooker, according to the figures by OnePoll.
The spokesperson from Utilita added: “Air fryers have clearly earned their place on the kitchen counter—and in the national conversation.
“But whether it’s an air fryer, oven, kettle or washing machine, knowing what appliances cost to run can help households make smarter choices.
“That’s exactly why Utilita created the Power Price List: to make everyday energy use easier to understand.”
