lively commercial kitchen with chefs of various ethnicities and genders working, showcasing a double-stacked floor model and a sleek countertop commercial air fryer, surrounded by stainless steel appliances and fresh ingredients

February 21, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

Can You Use an Air Fryer Commercially?

Thinking about using a commercial air fryer in your business? Short answer: Yes—but with some considerations. From crispier, healthier food to lower oil costs, they offer big perks, but capacity and regulations matter. Want to know if it’s right for you? Stick around for the sizzling details!

Types of Air Fryers

Consumer vs. Commercial

Not all air fryers are made the same. The ones you use at home are great for small batches, but they don’t have the power or durability needed for a busy kitchen. A commercial air fryer is built to handle constant use, larger portions, and the pressure of a restaurant environment. Think of it like comparing a home stovetop to a professional-grade range—both cook food, but only one is built for heavy-duty action. If you’re serving dozens of customers daily, a commercial model is the way to go.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Picking the right air fryer depends on your business needs. If you’re running a small café or food truck, a countertop model might do the trick. Bigger operations will need something with more capacity, like a freestanding unit. Consider how fast it cooks, how much food it can handle at once, and whether it has extra features like multiple baskets. The right fryer can streamline kitchen operations, keeping orders moving and customers happy.

Regulations and Approvals

Health Department Requirements

Before adding an air fryer to your kitchen, check local health regulations. Commercial kitchens must meet strict standards, and some areas require approval before introducing new equipment. Inspectors will look at things like ventilation, electrical safety, and overall food handling practices. A little research upfront can save a lot of headaches later on.

Food Safety Standards

Food safety is critical in any kitchen. While air fryers don’t require oil changes like deep fryers, they still need regular cleaning to prevent grease buildup. Proper food storage and handling are also essential to avoid contamination. Staying on top of maintenance and following best practices keeps customers safe and ensures compliance with regulations.

health inspector checking ventilation and safety standards near a commercial air fryer in a busy, well-lit commercial kitchen with chefs working in the background

Practical Considerations

Capacity and Throughput

Air fryers are known for making food crispy with less oil, but they have their limits. A single unit can only cook so much at once, which might not be ideal for high-demand kitchens. If your restaurant has a steady stream of orders, you may need multiple air fryers running simultaneously. Batch cooking is a great option for some menu items, but it’s important to consider whether the cooking speed aligns with your service expectations.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unlike deep fryers, air fryers don’t require oil filtration or disposal, but that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free. Food debris and grease can collect inside the basket and ventilation system, impacting performance. Regular cleaning is a must, and many models have removable, dishwasher-safe parts for easier upkeep. Keeping your equipment in top shape helps it last longer and ensures consistent food quality.

team of chefs cleaning and maintaining a commercial air fryer in a modern commercial kitchen, ensuring proper hygiene and equipment care

Do Commercial Kitchens Use Air Fryers?

Yes, but with some limitations. Many restaurants use air fryers for specific items rather than as a complete replacement for deep fryers. Fast-casual spots, food trucks, and health-conscious eateries often integrate air fryers into their workflow to provide lower-fat options. While air fryers work well for certain foods, deep fryers still reign supreme for high-volume frying. A combination of both can give businesses more flexibility in their menu offerings.

Menu and Application

Suitable Foods

Air fryers excel at making crispy fries, chicken wings, and breaded appetisers with little oil. They’re also great for roasting vegetables, cooking fish fillets, and even baking certain desserts. If you’re looking to expand your menu with healthier options, an air fryer can help. However, battered foods may not crisp up the same way they would in a deep fryer, so it’s essential to test recipes before making menu changes.

A commercial air fryer can be a valuable addition to a kitchen when used strategically. Understanding its strengths and limitations ensures it complements existing equipment, keeping operations smooth and customers satisfied.