Air fryer instructions needed on food packs: Leatherhead Research

A recent survey by the group found that more than two thirds (64%) of respondents would cook more with their air fryers if cooking instructions were included on the label.  

The research followed a recent rise in popularity for the kitchen device, with almost a third (30%) of UK households now owning an air fryer. Of the households that don’t, 22% said they planned to buy one in the next 12 months, with many citing a need to reduce energy bills as the primary reason.

Advice to manufacturers ​

Natasha Burton, head of cooking instructions at Leatherhead Research, said manufacturers of products that are commonly cooked in these devices want to be sure that consumers can achieve safe temperature and time combinations. 

“With 56% of owners using their air fryers weekly, and 67% saying they expect to use them more due to increased energy prices, there is a clear need for dedicated cooking instructions,”​ she explained.

“Being able to cook food more quickly, cheaply and with less fat is a winning combination for many people. By including air fryer cooking instructions on-pack, manufacturers enable consumers to cook food safely and achieve the desired sensory qualities.”​

In response to this trend, Leatherhead recently added air fryers to its UKAS-accredited cooking instruction generation and verification services.

Meanwhile, less than half (47%) of UK adults trust that manufacturers have correctly identified all the allergens in their products,​​ according to a new report from High Speed Training.