TSA Just Banned These 7 Surprising Snacks From Carry-On Bags
Packing snacks before a flight is a tried-and-true travel hack—saving money, cutting down on sodium-packed airport food, and keeping hunger at bay on long hauls. But if you're not careful, your go-to favorites might be headed straight for the TSA's trash bin.
The Transportation Security Administration has recently cracked down on a handful of surprisingly common foods. These snacks violate the 3.4-ounce rule for liquids, gels, and spreadable items.
While that rule is nothing new, travelers often forget it applies to more than just toiletries. This summer, it's catching people off guard at security checkpoints nationwide, according to The Mirror.
Spreadable and scoopable snacks like hummus and peanut butter are high on the list of problematic items. Even if paired with pretzels in a handy travel pack, those creamy containers often exceed the carry-on limit.
Yogurt and pudding, fan favorites among frequent flyers and parents alike, fall under the same category. Many individual-sized cups still cross the 3.4-ounce threshold, meaning they'll get flagged during bag checks.
Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert are also considered too spreadable to pass muster.
And it's not just dairy that's a problem—sweet items like honey and savory staples like salsa have joined the list as well. All are considered liquid or gel-like substances under TSA guidelines, and anything over the limit won't make it through.
While the rules themselves haven't changed, enforcement appears to be tightening. More travelers are reporting confusion over which items are allowed, especially when they look solid but fall into the "spreadable" or "gel" category. Even foods in resealable containers or single-serve packs can trip the alarm if they exceed the size limit.
The consequences? Delays, tossed snacks, and the occasional argument at security—all of which can derail an otherwise smooth travel day.
If you're flying soon, it's worth double-checking not only what you pack, but how much of it is going into your carry-on. Anything remotely creamy, gelatinous, or spreadable should be under 3.4 ounces or stowed in checked luggage.
In short, TSA is reminding travelers that if you can smear it on toast or eat it with a spoon, it probably counts as a liquid. And if it's over the limit, it's not coming on board.TSA Just Banned These 7 Surprising Snacks From Carry-On Bags first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 22, 2025
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