Expert: Carol Schlitt - 12/4/2006

Question
This question has been asked, and the answer was "return your deep fryer for health reason's".
Yes, deep frying will kill me...how long can I reuse oil for chicken, and french fries

Answer
Hi Daniel,

Cooking oils used for deep frying should be filtered after each use to remove food crumbs and to help to lengthen the usability of the oil.

How many times an oil can be reused depends upon what foods you are frying and the amount of food residue remaining in the fryer. Some foods, like fish, impart a distinct flavoring to the oil, which while okay for frying fish is not desirable for use with other foods -- such as french fries. An indication that your oil needs to be changed include smoking, foaming and color change.

To extend your oil, strain it after each use and add some fresh oil each time. When you notice smoking, foaming or dark color change -- time to pitch and start anew with fresh oil.

I hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions, please let me know.

Carol C. Schlitt
Extension Educator, Nutrition and Wellness
University of Illinois Extension