UK holidaymakers heading abroad this summer often face confusion at airport security over what food they can carry in hand luggage. While the rules on liquids are well known, the treatment of food items can be less clear. In general, solid dry foods are the safest bet, but some surprising exceptions apply to spreads, baby essentials and even fresh fruit.
According to current UK government guidance, any food that could be classed as a liquid — including soups, sauces, hummus, peanut butter and soft cheese — must be in containers of 100ml or less to pass through security. This applies to both domestic and international flights departing from UK airports. Travellers who want to take larger quantities of such items can purchase them in duty-free after passing security, though the airline retains the right to restrict them on board, particularly if a fellow passenger has a severe allergy, for example to nuts.
Parents travelling with babies are given more flexibility. Baby food, baby milk and sterilised water are permitted in hand luggage in quantities sufficient for the journey, with no legal upper limit, though airports may ask to see the baby present. Breast milk can be carried in containers of up to 2,000ml, but frozen breast milk is not allowed in hand luggage and must be placed in checked baggage. Ice packs and gel packs used to keep baby milk cool are also allowed, but passengers are advised to inform security staff at the screening point so the packs can be handled appropriately.
Fresh fruit such as apples and bananas can be taken in both hand luggage and checked bags, as long as they are solid. Mashed or puréed fruit falls under the liquid rules. However, travellers should check the import regulations of their destination country, as many nations restrict the entry of certain fruits and vegetables to prevent pests and diseases. Dried fruit is generally permitted in any quantity within baggage weight limits, but similar destination checks apply.
Chocolate bars are allowed as solid food, but the US Transport Security Administration advises that large quantities, such as souvenir packs, are best placed in checked luggage to avoid melting. If melted chocolate is found on a passenger at security, it could be treated as a liquid and therefore subject to the 100ml rule. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises travellers to check specific airline and airport policies before travelling, as rules can vary. Travel insurance policies should also be reviewed to ensure cover for any lost or delayed baggage containing food items, particularly for those with dietary requirements.