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When it comes to air travel, packing your carry-on can be tricky, especially because certain food items are not allowed. Whether it’s for security, agricultural reasons, or just plain practicality, some of your favourite snacks and ingredients might be banned from the cabin. From pungent fruits to oil or ghee, these items are better off in your checked luggage or left at home entirely.
Here’s a quick guide to the 7 most common food items you should avoid in your carry-on luggage, ensuring a smoother journey through security
Dry coconut, also known as copra, is typically banned in carry-ons due to security and agricultural concerns. This tough, fibrous food could potentially carry pests or diseases that threaten crops in other regions. Additionally, its dense texture makes it difficult to inspect properly. For smoother security checks and to avoid quarantine issues, it’s best to pack it in your check-in luggage.
While your favourite spices might make a meal complete, they often don’t make the cut for carry-ons. Powdered and granular spices can be difficult to inspect, raising security concerns. Plus, they might harbor pests or bacteria that could disrupt agriculture. To avoid delays or complications at the airport, store them in your checked bag where they’re less likely to cause any issues.
Etihad and many other airlines have a strict policy against bringing on-board strong-smelling fruits like durian, jackfruit, or marang. While these exotic treats may be a delicacy back home, their pungent aromas can make the cabin uncomfortable for fellow passengers. To avoid a smelly scene, it’s better to keep these fruits out of your carry-on and save them for later.
Bringing along a packed lunch sounds convenient, but cooked and canned foods don’t usually meet airport regulations. Due to their liquid content, items like canned soups, Nutella, or prepared meals can only be carried in small quantities (under 100ml). Always check your airline’s policy for specific rules. Otherwise, these items should be packed in your checked luggage for smoother travel.
Ghee and oils are a grey area depending on the airline. For instance, while Indigo prohibits carrying oil in any form, Air India allows small amounts in both carry-on and checked bags. However, both ghee and oils are highly flammable due to their fat content, which is why some airlines restrict them in the cabin. Always double-check your airline’s guidelines before packing these items.
Whether it’s cooked, dried, or frozen, airlines typically ban fish and seafood from the cabin due to potential odoujrs and contamination risks. This restriction applies even to your checked luggage in many cases. So, unless you’re willing to risk a stinky situation, leave the seafood behind or pack it differently.
In India, grains like rice and pulses are restricted in carry-on bags for domestic flights. While you can pack them in your checked luggage, it’s crucial to ensure they’re securely packed to prevent spills. Loose grains can make a mess and cause delays. Keep your grains tightly sealed to ensure a hassle-free journey through security.
