It’s the kitchen device that many of us now can’t live without.
Most have shunned their oven completely in favour of an air fryer, which uses rapidly circulating hot air to cook food.
While they are renowned for being a healthier option to conventional cooking methods – due to less oil being required – experts have now revealed there’s another unexpected benefit to the countertop appliance.
And it turns out the ‘buzz’ you feel when the air fryer pings isn’t just in your head – it’s actually sparking arousal.
The phenomenon, dubbed ‘air fryer flutters’, floods the brain with feel-good chemicals and creates a biological thrill, according to an expert.
Dr Eleanor Bryant, associate professor of health and eating psychology at the University of Bradford, explains that the anticipation of food activates the brain’s reward system in a unique way.
‘When we anticipate eating delicious food, our brain floods our neural pathways with feel-good chemicals,’ she said.
‘We’re seeing a heightened state of arousal due to the combination of novelty, speed and ease of cooking, which can be enhanced with using an air fryer.’
The ‘buzz’ you feel when your air fryer pings floods the brain with feel-good chemicals and creates a biological thrill, according to an expert
The anticipation triggers a cascade of biological reactions, she explained, which starts with the release of dopamine, the body’s ‘feel-good’ motivator chemical.
This is also released in large quantities during sex, triggering feelings of pleasure and reward.
Using an air fryer activates areas of the brain linked to emotion, Dr Bryant said, and causes an increased heart rate as excitement builds – similar to what happens between the sheets.
‘When using an air fryer you’re not just looking forward to something tasty – you’re doing it quickly, healthily, and often with a sense of pride,’ Dr Bryant said.
‘That’s a powerful mix. Fundamentally, our brains love variety, novelty and simplicity, especially when it leads to positive outcomes.
‘Using an air fryer makes people feel like they’re winning at food – making healthier choices that still feel indulgent.
‘The uplifting combination of taste, anticipation and reward prompts a genuine biological thrill.’
She said that this creates what’s called a ‘feedback loop’ – the more you enjoy the process, the more likely you are to repeat it.
The novelty, speed and ease of cooking triggers the release of dopamine, the body’s ‘feel-good’ motivator chemical (stock image)
It followed the launch of Philips’ first air fryer with a built-in steamer.
Sara Vaum, senior product manager at Philips said: ‘As the inventor of the air fryer we’ve always been immensely proud of how much people have come to love and cherish our innovation.
‘Families tell us time and time again how excited and delighted they are when it comes to using their air fryers at meal times.
‘So, we’re delighted to be able to christen this phenomenon the air fryer flutters.’
Up to six in ten homes now have the devices, which can be more cost effective than larger appliances.
In December last year, a survey of more than 1,000 people on behalf of Ninja UK found two-thirds planned on using their air fryer for Christmas day.
