Although "the majority of passengers do not travel with snacks, some bring their own food on board," as Shani Peralta, a member of the Canadian Flight Attendants Association (CWA), said in an interview with the New Zealand Herald.
As a passenger, you may need to bring your own food on the plane, perhaps due to dietary needs or preferences, or because you don't want to pay the additional fees some airlines charge for more diverse food options.
However, eating at altitude can sometimes pose awkward problems for passengers and embarrass travelers, making you think twice about what to bring with you. Therefore, it is important to know the etiquette rules to follow before you start eating in flight so as not to become the most awkward passenger on your flight.
Rules regarding personal food on board the aircraft
According to the specialized website Aviation Online, it is advisable to follow the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules before bringing food on board airplanes:
• Liquids and gels : The rules for transporting liquids and gels apply to products such as "salad dressing, peanut butter, yogurt," and must not exceed 100 milliliters (3,4 ounces or about 96 grams), which must be placed in a single, clear, resealable bag. Exceptions include infant food and medically necessary products.
• Solid foods : You can bring solid food in your carry-on baggage or personal belongings, but it is recommended to check your airline's specific rules and consult the restrictions applicable to your destination, as some countries have strict regulations regarding the importation of food products.
• Sharp objects : It is important to cut and prepare the necessary food before boarding the plane, and to avoid bringing food that requires cutting with a sharp knife or other prohibited items.
Rules of etiquette for eating on board
Dining at 35 feet requires skill and etiquette to avoid mistakes like unpleasant odors, spills, and crumbs. Etiquette expert and former flight attendant Jacqueline Whitmore offers six tips for maintaining the right attitude while dining on board, ensuring a pleasant experience without disturbing other passengers:
- Avoid strong-smelling foods
“Choose foods with a light odor or store them in airtight containers to reduce unpleasantness,” says Whitmore. “One of the biggest mistakes you can make is filling your bag with smelly meals.” She advises “thinking twice” before packing tuna sandwiches or shawarma, as well as foods containing onion, garlic, curry, and spices, and considering the impact on passengers around you. - Keep your space clean
Due to pressure changes on the plane, which can cause sauce or soda containers to burst, it's advisable to open these products slowly, away from neighbors, and to place a tissue on your chest or under your drinks to avoid accidents. "It's important to keep the space clean and tidy; no one wants to see crumbs or leftovers stuck to their seat." - Choose the right time to eat
Before you bite into a carrot or apple, consider other passengers who may have an aversion to noises like chewing and gum clicking, Peralta says. "Try to adapt to your surroundings," eating quietly if the passengers around you are asleep. - Opt for light snacks
To maintain your energy without becoming ravenous during long flights, Whitmore suggests choosing light but tasty snacks, such as granola bars, cookies, dried fruit, or chocolate, and avoiding complicated foods with sauce or that can break down easily. - Be aware of allergies
Be careful not to disturb passengers with allergies and listen to crew announcements regarding allergies. Some flights don't serve nuts, for example. "This is one of the most important tips regarding in-flight food etiquette," says Whitmore. She recommends purchasing snacks free of common allergens to avoid causing a problem for other passengers. - Don't panic if there is a spill
If an accident occurs while eating on board, don't panic, but act quickly. "Accidents happen, so it's best to acknowledge them, apologize immediately, and start cleaning up with napkins or wipes, or call a flight attendant for help," Whitmore advises.
