The rise of air fryers might be signaling a shift in kitchen dynamics, as a recent survey by Wickes highlights a potential decline in the use of traditional ovens. With air fryers becoming a staple in many households, particularly among younger generations, the kitchen landscape could be on the brink of transformation.
The survey questioned 2,011 adults in the UK, with a significant focus on the 18-27 age group. Notably, 23% of respondents from Gen Z envision a future where bulky appliances such as ovens and toasters are obsolete. Instead, they anticipate a kitchen equipped with advanced technology, including AI cooking hubs and integrated hydroponic systems. According to Dan Ferrari, Head of Kitchens at Wickes, “For Gen Z, the kitchen of the future is effortless, sustainable and always ready for its close-up.”
This generational shift reflects a broader trend towards convenience and sustainability in food preparation. Air fryers, which offer quicker cooking times and healthier meal options, are particularly appealing to younger cooks. They are seen as more compact alternatives to traditional ovens, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.
John Davies, Head of Marketing at Smeg, believes that ovens are evolving rather than disappearing. He suggests that today’s ovens are becoming more multifunctional, catering to the needs of younger generations. “While an air fryer is convenient, it’s less about choosing one or the other and more about finding an oven that can do it all,” Davies stated.
Gen Z’s vision for kitchens extends beyond just air fryers. The survey results reveal an interest in futuristic technology that emphasizes sustainability and digital connectivity. Features such as holographic AI chefs and soil-free hydroponic gardens are among the innovations they expect to see by 2075.
In addition to AI-enabled appliances, the survey indicates that Gen Z anticipates a shift towards zero-waste systems and hidden multi-use devices. This aligns with their values of health and environmental responsibility. Professor Deborah Sugg Ryan, a design historian, notes, “The kitchen has always been a mirror of the times… By 2075, the kitchen will reflect Gen Z’s values: sustainability, wellness, and digital connectivity.”
As the culinary landscape evolves, the role of traditional ovens in modern kitchens is uncertain. While air fryers may not entirely replace ovens, they are driving a trend towards more innovative kitchen solutions. The potential integration of advanced technology could lead to a kitchen that not only serves as a cooking space but also as a hub for social interaction and content creation.
In this shifting environment, it remains to be seen how conventional cooking methods will adapt. As kitchens become increasingly automated and connected, the future of cooking may well look very different from today.
