Melody Teh
Travel Trouble

New study reveals why you should never eat airline food

If you’ve ever been the recipient of a questionable tray of food on your flight, you’ll understand why a food and diet expert recommends we BYO our own meals on board. Charles Platkin, PHD, is the director of the New York City Food Policy Center at Hunter College and has dedicated his time to lifting the lid on the airline food industry in the US. His surveys seek to differentiate between the food on the major airlines in the US in terms of calories and nutrition, innovation and even ingredients (assuming the airlines will disclose this information).

Interestingly, none of the top 12 airlines scored full marks in the survey, with only Delta and Virgin America scoring 4 out of 5 for the health rating. The worst score went to Hawaiian Airlines, with a single 1 mark out of 5 for their health rating (Platkin also noted that their meals were very high in calories). 

Speaking to the Washington Post, Platkin encourages passengers to do the following before they fly to help alleviate some of the concerns about airline food.

Eat a full meal before you board

Just like you shouldn’t hit the supermarket on an empty stomach, Platkin recommends we treat flights in the same way. Have a decent meal before you fly, with plenty of fibre and protein to keep you fuller for longer. That way you won’t be as likely to tuck into the stale bread rolls or limp salad that is often served.

Carry your own snacks and drinks with you    

Depending on who you fly with and whether it’s domestic or international, there is scope to bring your own food on board. Sandwiches, wraps and rolls are always a good option, but consider salad or a simple spread rather than meat as it won’t be refrigerated. Flying with kids means you can’t go wrong with crackers and hummus or some popcorn. Keep in mind the liquid restrictions for international flights (so avoid yoghurts, custards or juice).  

Select these food items on board if available 

If your airline sells food, or there is scope to choose what you want to eat, Platkin recommends the following items as a good choice: nuts, fruit, crackers with hummus or cheese, fruit and yoghurt, wraps and sandwiches, boiled eggs, fruit bars and trail mix.

Have you ever had a bad food experience in the air? We would love to hear your story in the comments.

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travel international