Traveling by plane can be an exhilarating experience, but the in-flight food choices might not always reflect that excitement. Are you aware of the foods you should avoid on your next flight? This guide will help you ensure a more pleasant journey by steering clear of certain items that can cause discomfort or unpleasant odors.
Smelly Snacks: The Offenders to Avoid
One of the least thoughtful things a passenger can do is order smelly snacks. According to flight attendants, items like corn nuts and other pungent snacks are notorious for their overpowering aroma. Imagine all passengers being cooped up in a confined space and then someone opens a pack of roasted barbecue-flavored corn nuts. It’s a surefire way to incur the wrath of your fellow travelers.
People have shared stories about how certain flavors, such as onion and garlic, make the cabin feel even more cramped. If you want to avoid dirty looks from your neighbors, consider sticking to snacks that are less likely to offend.
The Issue with Hot Drinks on Planes
You might think that a warm cup of coffee or tea is a comforting choice while flying, but your body may not agree. Flight attendants have raised concerns about the hot drinks on planes. The water used to brew these beverages often comes from tanks that don’t see much cleaning.
One former flight attendant, Alex Quigley, explained, "There’s no telling how often or when the tank has been cleaned last. This is a beast for bacteria." If the thought of sipping stale brewed coffee after it has been sitting in an unsanitized tank isn’t appealing, it may be best to opt for water or a soft drink instead.
Steer Clear of Gassy Foods
When it comes to eating on airplanes, how much you enjoy your in-flight meal can be influenced by the kind of food you consume. Gassy foods are one of the biggest culprits for discomfort during flights. Foods like beans, soda, and dairy are known for causing bloating, especially at high altitudes where air pressure exacerbates the situation.
Additionally, the cabin air is circulated and not refreshed, which means that if someone passes gas, everyone else ends up breathing in that air. To keep cabin air cleaner and your stomach more comfortable, it’s wise to limit your intake of gassy foods when flying.
Meat Dishes: A Risky Choice
While enjoying a meal onboard can be a highlight of your travel experience, selecting a meat dish might not be the best decision for your health. Delays and unexpected mechanical issues can result in improper storage of food. Trusting that the flight crew is properly managing the temperature and storage of your meal can be a risky gamble.
"Food poisoning on a plane? No thanks!" Alex warns. Opting for vegetarian meals or snacks is not only safer but can also lead to a more enjoyable flying experience. Consider checking the airline's options for hygienic airline meals that prioritize your health.
Alcohol: Drink Responsibly
Partaking in a drink of choice to unwind can be tempting while flying. However, altitude makes alcohol consumption more dangerous than usual. Alcohol can lead to dehydration, worsened by salty beverages like Bloody Marys. One flight attendant recommends, "I always tell folks to drink water," especially if you're looking to have a comfortable flight.
If you decide to drink, keeping moderation in mind can help you feel better upon landing. Remember that staying hydrated is especially important at altitudes where you may not notice the effects of dehydration right away.
What Should You Drink Instead?
In light of this list of airplane food safety and snack suggestions to avoid, you may be wondering what you can safely consume while flying. Here are some alternatives to consider
- Water: Always the best choice for hydration.
- Non-caffeinated soft drinks: These can provide some flavor without the caffeine complication.
- Fruit juices: Opt for low-sugar juices for a refreshing alternative.
- Healthy snacks: Consider items like nuts (if not too pungent) or granola bars that aren’t likely to offend.
- Salads or vegetarian meals: If available, these can be safer and potentially more nutritious options.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your travel experience is as enjoyable as possible. When embarking on your next airborne adventure, make mindful choices about what you eat and drink to maintain not only your comfort but also the comfort of fellow passengers. Safe travels and happy dining aboard your next flight!