Let’s face it: plane food gets a pretty bad wrap. It always has. It may have come a long way (depending who you ask) but it’s still pretty awful and, at best, plain.
According to flight attendant Celia Bedding, there is a health reason to avoid eating aeroplane food altogether.
It’s not just because the bread rolls may taste stale or the scrambled eggs have a powdery texture, says Ms Bedding.
So, why should you avoid eating on the plane?
In an interview with Express, Ms Bedding explained that plane meals should be avoided as much as possible because of their high salt content.
The cabin pressure causes passengers to lose around 30 per cent of their tastebuds, so airline food companies add extra salt to compensate and enhance the flavour at 40,000 feet. This excess sodium can be detrimental to health, especially when flying.
She also advises against drinking tap water on board as it is not sanitary for drinking.
“For any passengers out there, whether you are a frequent flyer, an occasional flyer, a seasonal flyer or will be a first-time flyer soon, I would like to say to you: NEVER drink tap water from the plane bathroom,” says Ms Bedding.
Many flyers may think this is a ploy to get passengers to buy drinks, but it is actually for their own health. Ms Bedding urges passengers to never drink tap water from the bathroom. I have never met a single person who has, but in case you were tempted …
To make healthier choices, Ms Bedding suggests bring along a salad or fruit with low or no salt. This is all well and good so long as you eat it before you land, as some destinations won’t let you in with these foods.
She also says you should do your best to stay hydrated before, during, and after the flight. These tips can help passengers maintain their health while traveling.
In my opinion, there are always potential risks associated with airline food. I have to be really hungry to eat the meals but often happily accept the packaged snacks. If you have to eat, steer clear of the foods I’ve listed in this article.
Being cautious of what is consumed during flights can contribute to a more enjoyable and healthier travel experience. No-one wants to land with a crook tummy. You’re better off risking that on the tasty-looking fare from street food vendors.
What do you think of airline food? Do you avoid eating on the plane? What was airline food like ‘back in the day’? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below?
Also read: Can you buy COVID travel insurance?