New Delhi, Nov. 11 -- When was the last time you cleaned your air fryer?

A food-safety awareness survey recently found that 47% of air fryer owners do not clean the appliance after every use. While skipping dish duty may feel harmless, food and hygiene experts say the consequences are serious, ranging from foul odours to fire hazards and even bacterial contamination that could lead to illness.

Unlike an oven, where heat rises gradually, an air fryer uses rapid air circulation, pushing hot air around food at high speed. This powerful fan action sends tiny food particles, oil droplets, and spices into every corner of the machine.Dishes most commonly cooked in air fryers, like breaded snacks, frozen fries, crispy chicken, kebabs and cutlet...