Airport security bans surprising food items despite them not being liquids
A spokesperson for the Department of Transport advised: "Passengers should continue to check security requirements with their departure airport before travelling."
As the prices of refreshments at airports continue to soar, an increasing number of travellers are deciding to bring their own edibles to the airport. This is as shops are reported to be marking up snack and drink prices by as much as 48 per cent compared to high street stores, The Mirror's latest investigation reveals.
It comes as a large number of airlines, including British Airways who swapped their complimentary in-flight meals on short-haul journeys for a paid alternative, also now charge passengers for food onboard. Nonetheless, carrying certain commonplace foodstuffs could prompt security checks and even result in your snacks being confiscated.
Despite some modifications being rolled out at various UK airports, restrictions about liquids remain consistently strict at numerous airports domestically and globally, reports the Express.
As stated on the UK Government's official website at the time this article was written: "If you do take liquids in your hand luggage containers must hold no more than 100ml.Containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm and contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed."
Given that the majority are aware that liquids such as water and drinks fall within the ban, there are surprise entries you may not anticipate falling into the liquid category. A primary and perhaps surprising offender is hummus.
Despite this Middle Eastern blend of chickpeas and tahini vaguely resembling a paste rather than a liquid, it can still be seized from passengers at airport security points. Other spreads like guacamole or salsa are also subject to the same regulations.
A travel guru from Ski Vertigo chimed in: "Certain food items, especially those that are liquid or gel-like, such as peanut butter, jam, or yoghurt, are subject to the liquids rule."
"Solid foods generally pass through security without issues, but any food that can be spread, squirted, or poured may be confiscated if it exceeds the allowed liquid limits. Food items can also trigger additional screening if they appear suspicious on the X-ray."
While some UK airports have embraced high-tech CT scanners, doing away with the current liquid rule, other flight hubs have been slower on the uptake. Even if your UK departure airport has rolled out the new CT scanners, bear in mind that many international airports still enforce the liquid rule.
A spokesperson for the Department of Transport advised: "Passengers should continue to check security requirements with their departure airport before travelling."
This suggests that travellers should stick to the current liquid rules until further notice. There's no firm date yet for when all liquid rules will be scrapped.