That pre-flight hunger pang is a familiar feeling for any traveller. But before you grab a quick bite at the airport to tide you over, beware: your choice could lead to a severely uncomfortable flight or even holiday-derailing illness.
Travel and food safety experts have identified the most common airport purchases that are a recipe for disaster at 30,000 feet. Here’s what you should always avoid.
The Iced Nightmare: Pre-Made Sandwiches & Salads
Those chilled sandwiches and salads sitting in a display case may look fresh, but they are a hotspot for bacteria like listeria, which thrives in cold temperatures. The constant opening and closing of fridge doors causes temperature fluctuations, making them one of the riskiest items you can buy.
Tap Water Terror: Avoid Iced Coffee & Tea
Think twice before ordering that iced latte. Many airport vendors use tap water to make ice, and the quality of water tanks on airport grounds can be questionable. Stick to piping hot drinks or sealed bottled water to avoid any nasty stomach bugs.
The Sushi Gamble
Raw fish requires impeccable refrigeration. Any break in the cold chain between the supplier, the airport vendor, and your tray table can lead to rapid bacteria growth. It's simply not worth the risk when you're about to be confined to a plane.
Heavy, Greasy Burgers & Fries
While tempting, a heavy, greasy meal is a one-way ticket to bloating and discomfort. The change in air pressure during flight slows down your digestion, making that fatty feast sit in your stomach like a lead weight for hours.
The Dehydration Duo: Salty Snacks & Alcohol
Cabin air is incredibly dry, and dehydration is a common side effect of flying. Consuming a giant bag of salty pretzels or drinking alcohol before boarding will severely dehydrate you further, exacerbating jet lag and leaving you feeling dreadful upon arrival.
Dodgy Dairy: Cream-Based Pastries & Sauces
Items with cream, mayonnaise, or custard are highly perishable. If they haven't been stored at a consistent, cold temperature, they can become a breeding ground for food poisoning bacteria. Opt for dry, baked goods instead.
The Buffet Peril
Food sitting under heat lamps or on a buffet line for hours is a danger zone. The temperature is often not high enough to keep pathogens at bay, and you have no idea how long it's been sitting there or how many people have breathed near it.
So, What *Should* You Eat?
For a comfortable flight, experts recommend seeking out plain, packaged snacks like nuts or cereal bars, whole fruits you can peel yourself (like bananas or oranges), or well-cooked, hot food served immediately after preparation. Always stay hydrated with water from a sealed bottle.
A little planning can make the difference between starting your holiday in misery or arriving feeling fresh and ready to explore.
