The air fryer has overtaken the hob, microwave and oven to become the UK's most-used cooking appliance, according to a poll of 2,000 adults.
The survey found 64% of respondents use the gadget more often than their conventional cooker, with the figure rising to 75% among Gen Z. More than half (57%) said they use their air fryer more than they did two years ago, and one in ten reported it has been at least a month since they last turned on their oven.
Why households are making the switch
Faster cooking times (60%) emerged as the top reason households now favour their air fryer over a regular cooker, followed by convenience (54%). Running costs (90%) and energy efficiency (88%) were also considered important factors when deciding which appliance to use.
The research was commissioned by Utilita to highlight its Power Price List, which shows the cost to run a wide variety of household items. A spokesperson for the company 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 poll, conducted by OnePoll, found a quarter of respondents would be disappointed if their air fryer were to break, and 19% would drop everything and replace it immediately.
More than a third (37%) of owners said they cook more than ever before because of the gadget, while 32% believe it has revolutionised how they prepare food at home. Nearly a quarter (24%) revealed they have changed their meal plans based purely on the space available in their mini cooker.
The Utilita spokesperson 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."
