During a flight, you’ve likely enjoyed a cup of tea or coffee served by the cabin crew. But did you know this small pleasure could pose health risks?
Former flight attendant Alex Quigley has warned that there are certain high-risk foods and drinks that could increase the likelihood of food poisoning during a flight. So, if you’re thinking about ordering coffee on your next trip, you might want to reconsider.
Skip the coffee and tea – Go for juice instead
Quigley explained that the water used for hot beverages on a plane is stored in tanks that may remain stagnant for long periods and are not regularly cleaned.
Quigley told Delish that it was unclear how often or when the water tanks were last cleaned, describing them as a breeding ground for bacteria. He added that, to his knowledge, he had never seen anyone empty, refill, or clean the tanks between flights.
Why you should avoid ordering meat
Passengers should also be cautious with their meal choices. While meat dishes might seem tempting, Quigley says that they carry the highest risk of food poisoning, noting that passengers are essentially trusting the storage of meat to the flight crew, and that delays and mechanical issues are a common occurrence.
He mentioned that there is a strong possibility cooked meals may not have been stored properly or might have exceeded their safe holding time.
There are also foods that passengers are advised to avoid—not just for their own health, but out of consideration for others. Specifically, gas-inducing foods such as dairy, beans, greasy items, green vegetables, and fizzy drinks can contribute to poor air quality in the cabin.
He noted that the air on a plane is never fresh, which means that if someone passes gas, everyone ends up breathing it in repeatedly.
What about alcohol?
Another thing to be wary of is alcohol. While overconsumption is an obvious risk, Quigley explained that the combination of high altitude and alcohol can make you feel more intoxicated than you would on the ground.
He explained that when pressure drops on a plane, the body cannot absorb oxygen as efficiently, which can amplify the effects of alcohol. He added that passengers would do themselves a favour by skipping alcoholic drinks during the flight.
Also read: Easter food safety: What egg and meat labels really mean
Source: iefimerida
