Page Contents
11 surprising foods you can take through the TSA
When it comes to packing food in your carry-on, there are certain rules and restrictions you need to follow. We all know that liquids, gels and aerosols over 3.4 ounces are not allowed, but what about TSA-approved foods? You might be surprised to learn that there are some unexpected foods that you can actually bring on board. In this article, we’ll take a look at 11 surprising foods you can take through the TSA, with some handy tips and guidelines for each item.
1. Live lobster
Yes, you read that right. You can actually bring a live lobster in your hand luggage. While it may seem strange to travel with a crustacean, as long as you follow the rules, you can get through the TSA checkpoint. It’s important to check your specific airline’s rules for bringing live seafood on board, as they may have additional requirements beyond the TSA guidelines. The TSA states that live lobster should be placed in a clear, plastic, leak-proof bag or storage container for easy inspection.
2. Burgers
If you’re in the mood for a juicy, juicy burger and don’t want to rely on airport fast food, you’ll be happy to know that you can take a homemade burger through the TSA. The key is to make sure your burger is solid and properly packaged. Avoid wrapping it in foil or any other packaging that might interfere with the TSA’s ability to screen your item. Instead, wrap it in paper or use a plastic sandwich bag or clear container. If you’re carrying sauce with your burger, make sure it’s in a container of 3.4 ounces or less.
3. Yoghurt
Packing your own snacks for the plane can save you time and money, and that includes yogurt. The standard size for yogurt under TSA regulations is 3.4 ounces or less. Although yoghurt may not appear to be a liquid, the general rule is that if you can spill, spread, spray, pour or pump it, and it’s larger than 3.4 ounces, you won’t be allowed to carry it. Remember, you can always pack larger portions of your favourite snacks in your checked baggage.
4. Fresh eggs
If you’re a poultry farmer or simply want to take fresh eggs with you on your travels, TSA will let you do so without a problem. But it’s important to pack them properly. Separate your eggs from your hand luggage when you go through the X-ray machine so they don’t obstruct the screener’s view of other items in your bag. A plastic box is a recommended option for packing as it is durable and complies with TSA regulations. Remember, it’s ultimately up to the TSA officer to allow or deny any item in your carry-on bag.
5. Raw fish
Bringing raw fish, dead or alive, onto an aircraft is acceptable under TSA regulations. However, you should consider how your travel companions and other passengers might feel about it. To ensure compliance, pack your fish according to the TSA’s specific instructions for seafood. If you’re carrying fish on ice, it should be completely frozen. If you’re using dry ice, make sure your package weighs five pounds or less. For live fish, use a leak-proof, clear bag larger than 3.4 ounces.
6. Whole turkey
If you can’t imagine a holiday gathering or trip without a turkey dinner, you’ll be happy to know that you can bring a frozen or cooked whole turkey in your hand luggage. But it’s important to pack it properly and keep food safety in mind. Use dry ice or tightly wrapped plastic film. Remember that gravy and cranberry sauce are considered liquids and should be packed in your checked baggage.
7. Ice
Believe it or not, the TSA allows ice and other frozen items through security as long as they have begun to melt. If your frozen item is less than 3.4 ounces and partially melted, you’ll be allowed to carry it on board. However, if it’s over 3.4 ounces and has turned into a slush or liquid, it won’t be allowed. If you’re bringing frozen meat chilled with dry ice, you can bring up to five pounds of dry ice, provided it’s marked and ventilated.
8. Coffee beans
Coffee lovers will be pleased to know that you can bring coffee grounds and beans in your hand baggage. Just make sure they’re packed so they won’t interfere with other items in your bag or be removed when you go through the security X-ray machine. It’s worth noting that TSA regulations apply to domestic flights within the United States. If you’re travelling internationally, it’s important to check your destination country’s customs regulations regarding food.
9. Cakes and pies
If you have a special occasion or celebration during your trip and want to bring a cake or pie, you’re in luck. The TSA allows cakes and pies in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, they may require additional screening, so it’s a good idea to pack them so they can be easily inspected. Avoid elaborate decorations or excessive icing that may raise concerns during the screening process.
10. Fresh produce
Fresh fruit and vegetables are generally allowed in your hand baggage, but it’s important to check agricultural restrictions and regulations at your destination. Certain fruits and vegetables may be prohibited or subject to inspection on arrival. It’s a good idea to check the specific regulations of the country or state you’re travelling to and make sure your produce is properly washed and packed to avoid any potential problems.
11. Canned food
Canned foods are also allowed in cabin baggage. They are not subject to the 3.4-ounce liquid rule, so you can bring larger cans of soups, sauces or other canned goods. However, remember that cans can be heavy and take up a lot of space in your bag, so be sure to check your airline’s weight and size restrictions when packing.
It’s important to note that while these foods are generally allowed by the TSA, the final decision is at the discretion of the TSA officer on duty. It’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline and check the latest TSA guidelines before you travel to make sure you’re in compliance.
In conclusion, while there are some restrictions on what you can bring in your hand luggage, there are some surprising and unexpected foods that are TSA-approved. From live lobsters to burgers, yoghurt to fresh eggs and even whole turkeys, you have more options than you might think. Just remember to follow packaging guidelines, be mindful of food safety and always check the regulations of your specific airline and destination. Happy travels and bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take a live lobster on a plane?
Yes, you can bring a live lobster in your hand luggage. Be sure to check your specific airline’s regulations for bringing live seafood on board, as they may have additional requirements beyond the TSA guidelines. The live lobster should be placed in a clear, plastic, leak-proof bag or storage container for easy inspection.
Can I take homemade burgers on the plane?
Yes, you can take homemade burgers through the TSA. Make sure your burger is solid and properly packaged. Avoid wrapping it in foil or other packaging that may interfere with TSA’s ability to screen your item. Instead, use paper or a plastic sandwich bag or clear container. If you’re carrying sauce with your burger, make sure it’s in a container of 3.4 ounces or less.
Can I take yoghurt on a plane?
Yes, you can bring yoghurt on a plane as long as it is within the 3.4 ounce limit. Remember that if you can spill, spread, spray, pour or pump it and it’s over 3.4 ounces, you won’t be allowed to carry it. Larger portions of yoghurt can be packed in your checked baggage.
Can I take fresh eggs on the plane?
Yes, you can take fresh eggs on a plane. Pack them properly in a plastic carton and separate them from your hand luggage when going through the X-ray machine. It’s important to note that the final decision is up to the TSA officer, so be prepared for additional screening or questions.
Can I take raw fish on the plane?
Yes, you can bring raw fish on a plane, whether it’s alive or dead. Wrap your fish according to the TSA’s special instructions for seafood. If you’re bringing fish on ice, it should be completely frozen. If you’re using dry ice, make sure your package weighs five pounds or less. For live fish, use a leak-proof, clear bag larger than 3.4 ounces.
Can I take a whole turkey on a plane?
Yes, you can take a whole turkey on a plane, whether it’s frozen or cooked. Pack it appropriately, using dry ice or tightly wrapped plastic film. Remember that gravy and cranberry sauce are considered liquids and should be placed in your checked baggage.
Can I take coffee beans on the plane?
Yes, you can take coffee beans on the plane. Just make sure they’re packed so they don’t interfere with other items in your bag, or that you remove them when you go through the security X-ray machine. Note that these rules apply to domestic flights within the United States. For international travel, check your destination country’s customs regulations regarding food.