Traveling by plane is something that many people will experience, and what to eat during the flight is a concerning topic for airplane passengers. Aside from snacks and beverages, most flights provide at least one full meal. If you need to order food on the plane, flight attendants and etiquette coaches remind passengers not to choose inappropriate foods. This is not only for health reasons but also out of consideration for other passengers.
Etiquette coach Jamila Musayeva mentioned that ordering food on a plane requires careful consideration. She told Fox News Digital Channel, “The confined space, dry cabin air, and limited ventilation can turn a regular meal into something uncomfortable for you and those around you.”
She explained that well-mannered passengers not only consider their own preferences but also take into account the feelings of those sitting nearby.
Knowing what to order from the in-flight menu is not as simple as it may seem, according to former flight attendant, current etiquette expert, and founder of the Florida Palm Beach School of Etiquette, Jacqueline Whitmore, who added, “Even small portions of food can leave a lasting impression when you are just inches away from others’ faces for several hours.”
Whitmore continued, “At 35,000 feet in the air, your body, taste buds, and digestive system undergo changes—so what may look good on the ground may not be as suitable in the air. Not to mention, smells can spread.”
Both etiquette experts shared with Fox News Digital Channel which foods should absolutely be avoided on planes and the reasons behind it.
Whitmore advised that airline passengers should steer clear of high-sodium foods such as instant noodles, salty snacks, and processed meats. She mentioned that these foods “can make you thirsty, bloated, and sluggish.”
She further explained that since flying affects the digestive system, it’s best to consume nutrient-rich, fiber-filled foods to help maintain digestion during the journey.
Some wiser choices include pairing carrot and celery sticks with hummus or apples with almond butter.
Whitmore recommended avoiding dishes like tuna sandwiches, egg salads, or fish mains during flight.
She stated, “These foods often have strong odors in enclosed spaces,” and if improperly stored, they are prone to spoilage or causing foodborne illnesses.
Musayeva also agreed on avoiding egg-based dishes like omelets or egg salads during flights. She emphasized that opting for lighter foods is often more friendly in an airplane setting.
Experts suggest refraining from consuming fried foods like onion rings, chicken nuggets, or any breaded items while onboard.
“These foods can quickly become soggy, hard to reheat, and often emit greasy odors that spread rapidly in the cabin,” Musayeva mentioned.
She noted that fried foods are not easily digested and can lead to discomfort during turbulence or changes in air pressure.
Whitmore advised that airplane passengers should avoid legumes and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as they can cause severe bloating and gas.
“And when you’re in a cramped cabin, who would want to sit next to someone experiencing bloating?” she hinted.
Whitmore suggested other foods to avoid during flights include fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, or macaroni and cheese, as these foods “may not sit well with the stomach at high altitudes,” and “may lead to bloating or discomfort.”
“The lingering smell of these foods in breathing and the air stays much longer than most people would expect,” Musayeva told Fox News Digital Channel.
Her principle is that if a certain ingredient is considered too strong in flavor and unsuitable for a business meeting or a first date, then it might not be suitable for consumption during a flight.