Is your carry-on snack illegal? 6 foods that might get confiscated at airport

You’ve packed your bags, breezed through security, and you’re dreaming of that in-flight snack. But wait—why is airport security side-eyeing your homemade curry? And why are they holding up your jar of peanut butter like it’s a national threat?

Yes, not all foods are welcome on board. Some will get confiscated, others might cause a stink (literally), and a few could even get you into trouble at customs. So before you end up watching your snacks disappear into the hands of a very unsympathetic security officer, here’s what not to carry on a flight.

1. The liquid landmine – sauces, soups, and spreads
If it flows, oozes, or spreads, it’s probably on the no-fly list—at least in your carry-on. The 100 ml rule for liquids applies to:

• Soups and broths
• Gravies, stews, and curries
• Peanut butter, hummus, and chocolate spreads
• Yogurt and pudding

Basically, if it’s squeezable, spoonable, or slurpable, it’s going in the bin unless it’s under 100 ml and in a clear plastic bag.

2. Fresh fruits and veggies – biosecurity’s worst nightmare
Travelling internationally? That innocent apple in your bag could turn into an airport crime. Many countries – like the US, Australia, and New Zealand – have strict laws against carrying fresh produce to prevent pests and diseases from spreading.

Solution? Eat it before you land or declare it at customs. Otherwise, it’s getting tossed faster than you can say “I just wanted a healthy snack.”

3. Meat, seafood, and dairy – a customs officer’s red flag
Raw meat, seafood, and dairy products might be okay on your flight, but they can be a major problem at your destination. Some countries straight-up ban them, while others require special permits. Even some processed meats, like sausages or canned goods, could get you into trouble.

If you don’t want to be explaining your "emergency stash of homemade cheese” to customs officials, check the rules before you fly.

4. The ultimate smell offender – durian, jackfruit, and other pungent foods
If your food has the power to clear an entire room, maybe don’t bring it on a plane. Some airlines outright ban durian and jackfruit due to their overpowering smell.

Kimchi, blue cheese, and fermented fish? You can technically bring them, but don’t be surprised if your seatmate starts giving you dirty looks.

5. Alcohol
Want to sip some duty-free whiskey at 30,000 feet? Here’s the deal:

Carry-on: Only if it’s under 100 ml (unless purchased at duty-free after security).

Checked baggage: Allowed up to 5 litres, as long as it’s under 70% alcohol (no, you can’t smuggle absinthe).

Some countries (like Saudi Arabia) don’t allow alcohol at all.

Moral of the story? Know the rules before you toast to your travel adventures.

6. Powdered surprises – coffee, protein powder, and spices
Flying to the US or Australia? If you’re carrying more than 350g of powdered substances (think coffee, protein powder, spices, or baby formula), expect extra screening.

While most powders are allowed, security might still pull you aside, especially if your turmeric looks suspiciously like something out of a crime drama.

Final boarding call: what can you bring?
If you don’t want your snacks to end up in an airport trash bin, stick to these safe bets:

• Dry snacks like nuts, biscuits, and protein bars
• Solid cheeses and chocolates
• Sealed packaged food like chips and dried fruit
• Infant food or baby formula (reasonable amounts allowed)

So, before you pack that massive jar of homemade jam or a steaming bowl of soup, remember—airport security does not care how much love you put into it. Follow the rules, and your travel snacks will stay safely with you instead of becoming a sad story at the checkpoint.

Safe travels and happy snacking!