Is Cooking in an Instant Pot Less Healthy? Here Are the Pros and Cons

Pot pressure cooker on kitchen counter with beans and rice.
Image via StephanieFrey/Depositphotos

There are a lot of advances in cooking technology these days. But are we losing something to the convenience we get with these upgrades? Or is it a pointless concern? Let’s take a look. 

Pros

Instant Pots reduce cooking times significantly. The high-pressure and steam cooking capabilities allow you to prepare meals in a fraction of the time required for traditional methods, which can be great for busy schedules.

Surprisingly, the shorter cooking times in an Instant Pot may actually help retain more nutrients in certain foods. The sealed environment prevents the escape of water-soluble vitamins, and the reduced exposure to heat can minimize nutrient degradation.

Cons

On the downside, the rapid cooking process in an Instant Pot may lead to a loss of some textures and flavors, particularly in dishes that benefit from slow cooking or caramelization.

Instant Pots also operate at high pressure and temperature, which may not be ideal for certain cooking techniques. 

Finally, some Instant Pot models have a non-stick coating in the cooking pot, raising concerns about potential health risks associated with prolonged use or high heat.

Bottom Line

In sum, cooking in an Instant Pot is not inherently less healthy. It’s all a matter of preference and what works for your recipes and routines.