Airplane Food: Safe or Scary? Uncover the Truth Before Your Next Flight

When it comes to air travel, let's face it, airplane food safety is likely not at the top of most passengers' worry lists. You might be more concerned about whether your in-flight movie selection will save you from the ennui of flying at 30,000 feet. But then again, in a confined space with recycled air and meals prepared en masse, it’s only fair to ask: is it safe to eat? The quick answer is, generally speaking, yes. However, if you really want to minimize risks, here are a few nuggets of wisdom that might help.

According to Jen Dunphy, a doctor in public health—who sounds like the kind of person you’d want alongside you while picking out wine at a dinner party—plane food is safe and subject to regulations by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This means inspections exist to ensure that food is properly sourced, prepared, and stored. But let’s be real; even the best regulations have their hiccups, much like your favorite sitcom when the script goes awry. Case in point: remember that Delta Air Lines flight from Detroit to Amsterdam that had to make an emergency landing in July because of “spoiled food”? It’s a delightful reminder that just when you think you’re safe, life has other plans.

So, what should we be aware of when munching at 40,000 feet? Well, contamination is a primary concern. While high-altitude travel presents unique challenges, the food handling processes aren’t that different from what you'd find on solid ground. Dunphy emphasized that inspections of plane food preparation don’t happen frequently. And let’s be honest, who really wants to think about operational changes or environmental conditions leading to a questionable shrimp cocktail? It's best to take her advice and steer clear of seafood and anything that needs constant refrigeration.

For those of you who worry about the germs and bugs that might have plans of their own, consider packing your own snacks. Paul Janowicz, a lovely pilot from Delta Air Lines, kindly shared that spicy foods can cause in-flight irritation. You don’t want to find yourself in the middle seat cradling your stomach and praying for a quick landing. Fried food is another suspect here—higher sodium means more dehydration and, let’s face it, nobody wants gas and bloating on an already uncomfortable flight.

And here's a tip from a flight attendant whose advice went viral on BuzzFeed: steer clear of steak. The preparation methods are, shall we say, rather close quarters and not suited for those particular about their cuts. Meats in general are a gamble. Chicken? Well, that’s particularly tricky. “It’s hard to tell if chicken is bad by just looking at it,” noted Darin Detwiler, a food policy expert. Something tells me no one wants to be that passenger deliberating over a piece of fowl that smells... questionable.

Now, if you’re worried about the water, especially when flying internationally, Dunphy reassures us that domestic tap water in the U.S. is generally safe. But if your flight is coming from a place known for less-than-stellar water sources—like Mexico—bottled water is your best friend. In 2011, regulations were tightened somewhat with the Aircraft Drinking Water Rule, which requires airlines to test their water for harmful bacteria. However, a sad study from 2019 revealed that not all airlines are made equal. Turns out Alaska Airlines and Allegiant Air provide the safest water, while JetBlue and Spirit aren’t winning any awards in that department. Ouch.

And here’s something to chew on from flight attendant Kat Kamalani: never drink liquid that isn’t in a can or a bottle. Why? Well, airplane water tanks are “never cleaned and they are disgusting.” Apparently, even flight attendants avoid the coffee and tea that might be brewed in those mysterious water sources. Before you tuck into that warm cup, think twice; it could lead to more than just caffeine jitters.

Of course, in-flight rodent infestations have a knack for sparking panic. But fear not—Dunphy reassures that sightings of rodents near airplane food are exceedingly rare and dealt with swiftly. “Any reports of this occurring are likely freak incidents,” she says. So while I wouldn’t recommend bringing a feast for a rat party, the majority of air travelers should rest easy.

As we board our flights, it’s essential to keep these insights in mind. While airplane food may not win Michelin stars, knowing how to navigate the culinary landscape at 30,000 feet makes the journey just a little less daunting. So savor that snack, read your book, and most importantly, remember that flying should be about the adventure—not just what's on your plate.