Pyrex in Your Air Fryer? Everything You Need to Know for Safe Cooking
Can you safely use Pyrex in an air fryer in Australia? Yes—but safety depends on the type of Pyrex. Borosilicate Pyrex (common in Europe and pre-1998 North America) has superior thermal shock resistance and can handle higher air fryer temperatures. Soda-lime Pyrex (post-1998 in North America) is less heat-resistant and not recommended for high-temp air frying. For maximum safety, Australians should consider dedicated glass air fryers like the Terra Wellness 5.5L, designed specifically for high heat and airflow conditions.
Pyrex is a brand of glassware that has been a staple in kitchens for over a century. It is known for its durability and resistance to thermal shock, which makes it a popular choice for baking and cooking. But is it safe to use Pyrex in an air fryer?
The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know to do it safely. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about using Pyrex in your air fryer, from the types of Pyrex that are safe to use to the precautions you need to take.
Understanding Pyrex: A Brief History and Science
Pyrex has been a trusted name in kitchenware since 1915, when Corning Glass Works first introduced this revolutionary borosilicate glass cookware. The name "Pyrex" comes from the Greek word "pyros," meaning fire, reflecting its ability to withstand high temperatures without breaking.
However, not all Pyrex is created equal, and understanding the differences is crucial for safe air fryer use. The original Pyrex was made from borosilicate glass, which contains boron trioxide. This composition gives the glass superior thermal shock resistance, meaning it can handle rapid temperature changes without cracking or shattering.
The Great Pyrex Change: What You Need to Know
In the 1990s, Corning sold the Pyrex brand for consumer products in North America to World Kitchen, which changed the composition from borosilicate glass to soda-lime glass. This change was made to reduce manufacturing costs, but it also reduced the thermal shock resistance of the products.
Borosilicate Pyrex (Pre-1998 in North America, still used in Europe):
•Superior thermal shock resistance
•Can handle temperature changes of up to 160°C (320°F)
•Lower coefficient of thermal expansion
•More expensive to manufacture
Soda-Lime Pyrex (Post-1998 in North America):
•Reduced thermal shock resistance
•Can handle temperature changes of about 80°C (144°F)
•Higher coefficient of thermal expansion
•Less expensive to manufacture
This distinction is crucial when considering using Pyrex in your air fryer, as the older borosilicate versions are much safer for high-heat applications.
Identifying Your Pyrex: Borosilicate vs. Soda-Lime
Determining which type of Pyrex you have is essential for safe air fryer use:
Visual Identification:
•Borosilicate Pyrex: Often has a slight blue or greenish tint when viewed from the edge
•Soda-Lime Pyrex: Appears more clear with no tint
Date and Location:
•Pre-1998 North American Pyrex: Likely borosilicate
•European Pyrex: Still made from borosilicate
•Post-1998 North American Pyrex: Soda-lime glass
Brand Markings:
•Look for "PYREX" (all capitals) for borosilicate
•"pyrex" (lowercase) typically indicates soda-lime glass
Temperature Limits and Safety Guidelines
Understanding the temperature limits of your Pyrex is crucial for safe air fryer use:
Borosilicate Pyrex Temperature Guidelines
Maximum Operating Temperature: 230°C (446°F) Thermal Shock Resistance: Can handle rapid temperature changes of up to 160°C (320°F) Safe Air Fryer Use: Generally safe for most air frying applications when proper precautions are taken
Soda-Lime Pyrex Temperature Guidelines
Maximum Operating Temperature: 180°C (356°F) Thermal Shock Resistance: Can handle rapid temperature changes of about 80°C (144°F) Safe Air Fryer Use: Requires extreme caution and is not recommended for high-temperature air frying
Safe Practices for Using Pyrex in Air Fryers
If you choose to use Pyrex in your air fryer, following these safety guidelines is essential:
Pre-Use Inspection
Before each use, carefully inspect your Pyrex for:
•Chips or Cracks: Even tiny chips can become stress points that lead to catastrophic failure
•Scratches: Deep scratches can weaken the glass structure
•Previous Thermal Damage: Look for stress patterns or cloudiness in the glass
Never use damaged Pyrex in an air fryer, as the high temperatures and rapid air circulation can cause it to shatter unexpectedly.
Temperature Management
Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with lower temperatures (150°C/302°F or less) and gradually increase if needed.
Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: Never place cold Pyrex directly into a preheated air fryer. Allow the glass to come to room temperature first.
Monitor Cooking Temperatures: Use an external thermometer to verify that your air fryer isn't exceeding safe temperatures for your specific type of Pyrex.
Preheat Gradually: If preheating is necessary, do so gradually over several minutes rather than jumping immediately to high temperatures.
Proper Placement and Support
Ensure Proper Fit: Make sure your Pyrex dish fits comfortably in the air fryer basket without touching the heating elements or walls.
Provide Adequate Support: Use the air fryer's included accessories or racks to properly support the Pyrex dish.
Allow Air Circulation: Ensure there's adequate space around the dish for proper air circulation, which is essential for even cooking and temperature control.
Safe Removal Techniques
Use Proper Tools: Always use heat-resistant gloves or tongs when removing hot Pyrex from the air fryer.
Cool Gradually: Allow the Pyrex to cool gradually rather than placing it on cold surfaces or exposing it to cold air.
Avoid Water Contact: Never place hot Pyrex in cold water or allow cold water to splash onto it while it's hot.
What Foods Work Best with Pyrex in Air Fryers
Certain foods are better suited for Pyrex air fryer cooking than others:
Ideal Foods for Pyrex Air Frying
Casseroles and Baked Dishes: Foods that cook at moderate temperatures (150-180°C) work well in Pyrex.
Vegetables: Root vegetables and other sturdy vegetables that benefit from even, gentle cooking.
Fish and Seafood: Delicate proteins that cook quickly and don't require extremely high temperatures.
Desserts: Baked goods that cook at moderate temperatures, such as fruit crisps or bread puddings.
Foods to Avoid with Pyrex
High-Fat Meats: Foods that render a lot of fat can create hot spots and temperature spikes.
Foods Requiring High Heat: Items that need temperatures above 180°C for proper cooking.
Frozen Foods: Placing frozen items in Pyrex can create extreme temperature differentials that may cause cracking.
Alternative Glass Options for Air Fryers
While Pyrex can be used safely in air fryers with proper precautions, there are better alternatives specifically designed for high-heat cooking:
Dedicated Glass Air Fryers
The safest option is to use an air fryer specifically designed with a glass cooking chamber, like the Terra Wellness 5.5L Glass Air Fryer. These units use high-quality borosilicate glass that's specifically engineered for air frying temperatures and conditions.
Advantages of Dedicated Glass Air Fryers:
•Designed specifically for air frying temperatures
•Proper ventilation and air circulation
•No risk of improper fit or placement
•Optimal safety features and controls
Other Heat-Resistant Glass Options
Anchor Hocking: Offers some borosilicate glass products suitable for high-heat cooking.
Luminarc: Produces tempered glass cookware that can handle moderate air fryer temperatures.
Duralex: French-made tempered glass that offers good thermal shock resistance.
Troubleshooting Common Pyrex Air Fryer Issues
Uneven Cooking
Cause: Poor air circulation around the Pyrex dish Solution: Ensure adequate space around the dish and consider using a smaller container
Food Sticking
Cause: Pyrex isn't naturally non-stick like some other materials Solution: Lightly grease the dish or use parchment paper designed for air fryers
Condensation Issues
Cause: Covered dishes can trap moisture Solution: Remove covers partway through cooking or use vented lids
Temperature Control Problems
Cause: Glass can retain heat differently than metal Solution: Monitor food closely and adjust cooking times as needed
Emergency Procedures: What to Do If Pyrex Breaks
Despite taking all precautions, glass can sometimes break unexpectedly. Here's what to do:
Immediate Safety Steps
1.Turn Off the Air Fryer: Immediately stop the cooking process and unplug the unit
2.Don't Open Immediately: Allow the air fryer to cool for several minutes before opening
3.Wear Protection: Use closed-toe shoes and gloves when cleaning up glass
4.Ventilate the Area: Open windows to clear any potential fumes from heated glass
Cleanup Procedures
1.Remove Large Pieces: Carefully remove larger glass fragments with tongs
2.Use Bread for Small Pieces: Press a slice of bread onto the air fryer basket to pick up small glass fragments
3.Thorough Cleaning: Clean the entire air fryer thoroughly before using again
4.Inspect for Damage: Check the air fryer for any damage from glass fragments
The Science of Glass Failure in High-Heat Applications
Understanding why glass fails can help you use it more safely:
Thermal Stress
Glass expands when heated and contracts when cooled. If different parts of a glass dish heat or cool at different rates, internal stress develops. When this stress exceeds the glass's strength, it cracks or shatters.
Stress Concentration
Small flaws like chips or scratches act as stress concentrators, making the glass much more likely to fail at these points. This is why inspecting Pyrex before each use is so important.
Fatigue Failure
Repeated heating and cooling cycles can weaken glass over time, even if each individual cycle is within safe limits. This is why older Pyrex may be more prone to failure.
Making the Right Choice: Pyrex vs. Dedicated Glass Air Fryers
While it's possible to use Pyrex in air fryers safely, dedicated glass air fryers offer significant advantages:
Safety Advantages
•Purpose-Built Design: Engineered specifically for air frying conditions
•Optimal Glass Thickness: Designed to handle thermal stress from air frying
•Proper Ventilation: Built-in features to manage temperature and airflow
•Safety Testing: Extensively tested for air frying applications
Performance Advantages
•Better Air Circulation: Designed for optimal airflow patterns
•Even Heating: Engineered to minimize hot spots and temperature variations
•Easier Monitoring: Clear visibility of food during cooking
•Integrated Controls: Temperature and timing controls designed for glass cooking
Convenience Advantages
•No Size Limitations: Cooking chamber sized appropriately for the appliance
•Easy Cleaning: Removable glass components designed for easy maintenance
•No Compatibility Concerns: No need to worry about whether your dishes will fit or work safely
Conclusion: Safety First in Air Fryer Cooking
While it's technically possible to use Pyrex in air fryers with proper precautions, the safest and most effective approach is to use an air fryer specifically designed with a glass cooking chamber. The Terra Wellness 5.5L Glass Air Fryer represents the ideal solution, combining the benefits of glass cooking with purpose-built design and safety features.
If you do choose to use Pyrex in a traditional air fryer, remember that safety should always be your top priority. Inspect your glassware carefully, understand its limitations, and never push beyond safe temperature ranges. The convenience of using existing Pyrex dishes isn't worth the risk of injury from glass failure.
For the ultimate in safe, non-toxic air frying, invest in a dedicated glass air fryer that's designed specifically for this cooking method. Your safety, and that of your family, is worth the investment in proper equipment designed for the job.
Remember, the goal of healthy cooking is not just to avoid harmful chemicals in your food, but also to cook safely and confidently. Choose the right tools for the job, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're cooking safely for your loved ones.
Use code BLOG20 at checkout to save 20% on our top-rated, Teflon-free models. Stocks are limited, so order now! [Shop Non-Toxic Air Fryers ➜]
FAQs About Pyrex and Air Fryers in Australia
Q1: Is Pyrex safe in Australian air fryers?
A: It depends—borosilicate Pyrex is generally safe up to 230°C, while soda-lime Pyrex is riskier above 180°C.
Q2: How can I tell if my Pyrex is borosilicate or soda-lime?
A: Look at markings and age: older/pre-1998 Pyrex and European Pyrex are usually borosilicate; lowercase “pyrex” often indicates soda-lime.
Q3: What risks exist when using Pyrex in air fryers?
A: Risks include thermal shock, cracking, or shattering, especially if Pyrex is cold when placed in a hot air fryer or has chips/scratches.
Q4: What foods are best to cook in Pyrex inside an air fryer?
A: Safer options include vegetables, casseroles, fish, and baked desserts cooked at moderate temperatures (≤180°C). Avoid fatty meats and frozen foods.
Q5: Is a glass air fryer safer than using Pyrex dishes?
A: Yes. Dedicated glass air fryers (like Terra Wellness) are designed for high-heat, rapid air circulation and offer better safety and performance.
For further reading please refer to:
Least Toxic Air Fryer for Healthy Cooking in Australia (2025) | Teflon-Free Picks
