What Cabin Crew Avoid Eating on Planes – and Why You Should Too

Ever wondered what a flight attendant munches on while cruising at 35,000 feet? Beyond the regular meal services, there’s a set of unspoken rules about what cabin crew choose not to eat while on duty. These choices are more about ensuring comfort and maintaining a professional atmosphere rather than just personal taste. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what cabin crew avoid eating and why you might want to think twice before consuming these items yourself.

What Cabin Crew Avoid Eating on Planes?

1. Heavy Spicy Foods

Spicy dishes are a no-go for many flight attendants. They can cause digestive issues like heartburn or discomfort, which is less than ideal when you’re working long hours in a small space. Plus, the strong odors can affect the cabin environment, making it uncomfortable for both crew and passengers.

2. Rich Creamy Sauces

Creamy sauces, while delicious, are often avoided because they can be heavy and lead to bloating. Such dishes can make the crew feel sluggish and uncomfortable, which is not ideal when the job demands constant movement and alertness.

3. Strong-Smelling Fish

Fish like tuna or sardines, while healthy, have a potent smell that can linger in the confined space of the aircraft. This can be unpleasant for everyone onboard, so cabin crew typically avoid these to keep the environment pleasant.

4. Messy Foods

Anything that is messy or difficult to eat, such as ribs or foods with lots of sauce, is generally avoided. Maintaining cleanliness is crucial in the cabin, and messy foods can lead to spills and stains.

5. Gas-Inducing Vegetables

Certain vegetables, such as beans and broccoli, are known for causing gas and bloating. Cabin crew often avoid these to ensure they remain comfortable and professional throughout the flight.

6. High-Sugar Snacks

Snacks high in sugar, like candy and pastries, are avoided because they can lead to energy crashes. Staying alert and energetic is crucial for handling the demands of the job, and sugary snacks can interfere with this balance.

7. Overly Processed Foods

Highly processed foods often contain excess sodium and preservatives, which can lead to dehydration and bloating. Crew members usually opt for fresher, lighter options to avoid these issues.

8. Raw Foods

Raw foods, such as sushi or uncooked vegetables, are sometimes avoided due to concerns about food safety and potential digestive problems. Properly cooked food is preferred to minimize any risk of foodborne illness.

9. Caffeinated Beverages in Excess

While a cup of coffee or tea is often consumed, excessive caffeine can lead to dehydration and jitteriness. Cabin crew monitor their caffeine intake to maintain hydration and energy levels without overdoing it.

10. Foods That Are Hard to Digest

Heavy, fatty foods that are difficult to digest are generally avoided. Cabin crew prefer lighter, more easily digestible foods to avoid feeling sluggish or uncomfortable while on duty.

11. Exotic or Unfamiliar Foods

Exotic or unfamiliar foods might not sit well with everyone, especially when working in a busy environment. Flight attendants often stick to foods they know will be gentle on their stomachs.

12. Foods with Strong Flavors

Items with strong or unusual flavors, such as pickled or fermented foods, are avoided. These can leave lingering smells and tastes that might be off-putting in the confined space of the aircraft.

13. Greasy Foods

Greasy foods are less ideal because they can lead to discomfort and make maintaining cleanliness more challenging. Opting for less greasy options helps keep both crew and the cabin in better shape.

14. Foods That Cause Allergic Reactions

Crew members with allergies avoid foods that could trigger a reaction. This precaution is essential to prevent any health issues while on duty.

15. Excessive Portions

Large portions of food can lead to discomfort and sluggishness. Cabin crew often opt for smaller, balanced meals to stay comfortable and alert throughout their shift.

Why You Should Be Mindful Too

Understanding what cabin crew avoid can offer insights into maintaining your own comfort during a flight. Avoiding overly spicy, greasy, or strong-smelling foods can make your journey more pleasant.

If you have any questions about cabin crew diets, your own flying food experiences, or other aspects of life in the skies, leave a comment below. Join our cabin crew forum to connect with experienced flight attendants who can provide more details and answer your questions about working as cabin crew.