TSA limits liquids, gels, and anything spreadable to 3.4 ounces or less in carry-on bags. That includes things like hummus, peanut butter, and yoghurt. If you’re bringing any of those, make sure the container is small enough or plan to pack it in your checked luggage. Here are some snacks to double-check before you fly.The TSA recently clarified that six foods that are most commonly taken away include yoghurt, hummus, cream cheese, creamy dips and spreads, jam, and peanut butter. Each Thanksgiving, the government agency also reiterates that pieces of leftover turkey are completely fine to bring as one’s mid-flight snack, while—depending on just how liquid they are—cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes could get taken away.
List of snacks you can’t bring in your carry-on bag on a flight
Even travel-sized packs are often over 3.4 ounces, making them non-compliant with TSA’s liquid/gels rule. If it can be smeared, it’s considered a liquid.Like peanut butter, it’s classified as a spread. Unless it’s in a container under 3.4 oz, it will be confiscated.These creamy snacks, often packed by parents, are also gels. Popular brands like KozyShack usually exceed size limits and won’t pass TSA checks.
- Soft Cheeses (Brie, Camembert)
Delicious, yes. Approved? No. These are considered too spreadable and fall under liquid/gel restrictions.Both are thick liquids. Containers over 3.4 oz won’t make it past security—even if sealed.“If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it, or pour it—it’s considered a liquid, aerosol, or gel,” a TSA spokesperson told USA Today. “And if it’s over 3.4 ounces, it needs to go in your checked luggage.” While solid snacks like chips, pretzels, or hard candies are allowed in carry-ons, any food item that doesn’t meet the 3-1-1 liquids rule could be taken away at security. There are exceptions, however, for baby formula, breast milk, and certain medications, which may be carried in larger quantities with proper declaration.If you’re heading to the airport soon, it’s a good idea to review both what you’re packing and how much of it is going into your carry-on. Items that are creamy, spreadable, or gel-like must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, or packed in your checked baggage.In simple terms, if you can scoop it, smear it, or eat it with a spoon, TSA likely considers it a liquid. And if it exceeds the size limit, it won’t make it past security.
