Using tin foil (aluminium foil) in an air fryer is a common question. The short answer is: sometimes — yes, but only if used correctly. When used improperly, foil can block airflow, cause uneven cooking, or even touch the heating element and create sparks. This guide explains when it’s safe, how to use foil correctly, useful alternatives, and safety tips so you get great results every time.
Is Aluminium Foil Safe in an Air Fryer?
Aluminium foil itself is not inherently unsafe in an air fryer. Many manufacturers allow its use for certain tasks — for example, lining a drawer to catch drips or wrapping foods. The risk comes from how the foil is used. If foil is loose and can be lifted by the air circulation, or if it touches the heating element, it can cause sparking. Also, completely blocking the basket with foil reduces airflow and prevents even cooking.
When You Can Use Foil (Best Practices)
- On the bottom of a tray: Use foil to line a solid baking tray or tray insert (not the mesh basket) to catch drips. Make sure the foil is flat and secured so it can’t be lifted by the fan.
- Under food with weight: Place foil under heavy foods (like a pork roast) so it stays in place. The food should sit on the foil to keep it anchored.
- To wrap food: Use foil to wrap items (e.g., a foil parcel of fish and vegetables). Wrapped parcels are compact and won’t flap around.
- Avoid covering the entire basket: Leave clear space for hot air to circulate around the food — this is what cooks food quickly and evenly.
When to Avoid Foil?
- Do not use loose pieces: If foil can be blown around by the airflow it may contact the heating element and spark.
- Avoid lining mesh baskets completely: Covering a perforated or mesh basket blocks air and ruins cooking performance.
- Do not use with acidic foods uncovered: Foods with lemon, vinegar or tomato can react with aluminium and may impart a metallic taste or discoloration. Use parchment paper or a non-reactive tray instead.
- If the manual forbids it: Always check your air fryer’s user manual — some models explicitly advise against foil.
How to Place Foil Safely — Step by Step
- Check the manual. Manufacturer instructions override general advice.
- Cut foil to size. Use just enough foil for the food or tray; avoid large overhangs.
- Secure the foil. Anchor it under the food or tuck it tightly around a solid tray so it cannot lift.
- Keep clear of the element. Maintain distance from the top heating element and never let foil touch it.
- Leave airflow gaps. Ensure sides remain open for hot air to circulate evenly.
Alternatives to Aluminium Foil
- Parchment paper: Use air fryer–safe parchment (with holes) for delicate items or to prevent sticking. Make sure it’s only placed in a hot pan with food on top to hold it down.
- Silicone liners: Reusable and heat-resistant, silicone mats work well on solid trays.
- Non-stick trays or inserts: Solid non-stick baking trays prevent drips and are easy to clean.
Model Compatibility and Brand Notes
Not all air fryers are built the same. Some have baskets with larger gaps or exposed heating elements higher up, which increases the risk if foil is used improperly. If you own a high-quality cookware or appliance from trusted makers like Scanpan or WMF, check their guidance for accessories and recommended cookware that fit and perform well with air fryers. When in doubt, use a solid tray or an oven-safe dish that fits inside your fryer.
Quick Safety Checklist
- Read your air fryer manual for foil guidance.
- Only use foil on solid trays or under heavy food.
- Trim excess foil so it can’t be moved by airflow.
- Never allow foil to touch the heating element.
- Avoid foil with acidic foods unless wrapped completely.
Summary
Yes—you can use aluminium foil in an air fryer in many situations, but it must be done carefully. Correct use preserves cooking performance and avoids safety issues. Prefer secure, flat placement on solid trays or fully wrapped parcels. If you want foolproof options for lining or separating food, consider parchment, silicone liners, or oven-safe trays designed for air fryers.
