Consumer experts at Which? have warned that reheating rice in an air fryer could present a health hazard, as harmful bacteria can grow in improperly stored rice and reheating will not remove the toxins produced.
Which? warns against reheating rice in air fryers
Air fryers have surged in popularity in recent years, offering faster cooking times and helping to reduce energy bills. The appliance can prepare food from scratch as well as reheat leftovers, but Which? has identified several food items that home cooks should reconsider reheating in it.
Top of the list is rice. Since improperly stored rice can grow harmful bacteria, extreme caution is needed when reheating it. The experts at Which? explained: "If cooked rice is left out at room temperature, the bacteria can start growing again from the spores, multiplying and producing toxins that cause food poisoning. Reheating will not get rid of these toxins."
Why rice doesn't reheat well in an air fryer
Beyond the risk of harmful bacteria, the air fryer does not allow rice to be reheated to its optimum quality. The Which? experts noted that while some people do reheat rice in the air fryer, they do not advise it.
They wrote: "The appliance's rapid hot air can quickly dry out or harden the rice. Rice also needs particular care when reheating, so we'd recommend using a method that makes it easier to heat it thoroughly and evenly."
Food specialists at Good Food clarified that adding a few drops of water to the air fryer basket is "fine", but it should not be done regularly. The appliance is not designed for boiling foods, and added water could damage the heating element and the air fryer itself. The same principle applies to pasta, as introducing unnecessary liquids into an air fryer risks damage or extra cleaning.
CPD Online College wrote: "It is not recommended to cook pasta in an air fryer due to the liquids and sauces used during the cooking process, as when the hot air circulates it can cause a splatter which can be dangerous, and it can also be messy."
Safe methods for reheating rice
Rather than using the air fryer, Which? suggests the microwave as the preferred option. Place the rice in a microwave-safe dish, add one to two tablespoons of water to prevent drying out, and heat until piping hot throughout.
Another effective kitchen gadget for reheating rice is a rice cooker.
