Whether it’s last night’s leftover tuna melt or the hard-boiled eggs from the in-flight menu, certain foods are best left uneaten during air travel—not just for your own comfort, but out of consideration for fellow passengers.
Choosing the right food on a plane takes a bit of planning, says Jamila Musayeva, an etiquette expert trained in the U.S. and currently based in Baku, Azerbaijan.
“In the confined space of an airplane, with dry air and limited ventilation, even a simple meal can quickly become unpleasant—for you and those around you,” Musayeva told Fox News Digital. Thoughtful travelers, she adds, take into account not only their own preferences, but also the comfort of those seated nearby.
“Choosing what to order from the in-flight menu isn’t always as simple as it appears,” explained Jacqueline Whitmore, a former flight attendant turned etiquette expert and founder of the Protocol School of Palm Beach in Florida.
“When you’re seated inches from someone’s face for hours, even small ingredients can make a big impression.”
At 35,000 feet, your body, taste buds, and even your digestive system react differently—what seems appetizing on the ground might not be so pleasant in the air. And let’s not forget, smells tend to linger and spread too.
The two experts shared their advice with Fox News Digital on what foods to avoid ordering on a plane—and why.
- Salty Foods
According to Whitmore, air travelers should steer clear of high-sodium options such as instant noodles, salty snacks, and processed meats.
- Fish or Egg-Based Meals
Whitmore recommends avoiding dishes like tuna sandwiches, egg salad, or fish entrées while flying. These foods “tend to have the most pungent smells in a confined space,” she explained. Additionally, there’s a higher risk of spoilage or foodborne illness if the meal hasn’t been properly stored.
For a healthier alternative, stick to nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods that help maintain digestion during the flight, such as carrots and celery sticks with hummus or an apple with almond butter.
- Fried Foods
Experts recommend avoiding fried foods, such as onion rings, chicken nuggets, or anything with a breaded coating, while flying. “They go soggy quickly, don’t reheat well, and often release a greasy aroma that spreads rapidly throughout the cabin,” Musayeva explained. Additionally, these foods can sit heavily in the stomach, potentially causing discomfort during turbulence or pressure changes.
Musayeva also agreed that egg-based dishes, like omelets or egg salad, are best skipped in-flight. “Even when freshly prepared, they tend to give off a strong scent once reheated, which can quickly fill a confined cabin space,” she said. “Not everyone tolerates that smell, especially on long-haul flights. It lingers and can make nearby passengers feel nauseated. On a plane, subtle choices are often kinder.”
- Beans and Cruciferous Vegetables
Air travelers should avoid beans and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as they can lead to uncomfortable gas and bloating, according to Whitmore. “And when you’re in a cramped cabin, who wants to sit next to someone with gas?” she added.
Musayeva suggested that opting for lighter meals can help you feel more comfortable during a flight. These choices are not only easier on your digestive system but also more considerate for those sharing the space.
- Creamy or Dairy-Heavy Foods
While creamy dishes like fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, or macaroni and cheese may be tempting, they’re best avoided during a flight. According to Whitmore, these foods “don’t always sit well in your stomach at high altitudes” and “can also lead to bloating or discomfort.”
If you’re craving pasta, consider opting for a dairy-free option, such as penne with tomato sauce and basil, or a pasta primavera featuring veggies and olive oil. For a lighter option, choose dishes with just a light sprinkling of shaved cheese.
On the flip side, these are healthy food choices, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of indulging in something like crudités or a bean dip before deciding on the best meal option for your flight.
- Dishes with Garlic
Garlic may be delicious on the ground, but it behaves quite differently in the air, so jetsetters should think twice before ordering it mid-flight.
“The flavor tends to linger on the breath and in the air much longer than most people expect,” Musayeva explained to Fox News Digital.
“When you’re seated inches from someone’s face for hours, even small ingredients can make a big impression—and not in the way you want.”
Her rule of thumb: if an ingredient is considered too strong for a business meeting or a first date, it’s probably not a good choice for a flight.
