A Delta Airlines pilot and co-pilot reveals foods to avoid while flying.
The New York Post highlighted five foods to avoid, referencing First Officer Paul Janowicz, an experienced Delta pilot.
Janowicz identified alcohol, coffee, carbonated drinks, spicy foods, and fried foods as foods to avoid. He specifically warned, “While it may be nice for those early morning flights, the caffeine in coffee will dehydrate you in an already dehydrating cabin environment.”
He further explained that food safety experts and crew members are aware of an issue concerning airplane coffee. The water used for coffee and tea might be contaminated since it comes from the aircraft’s tank.
Officials have raised concerns about contamination in airplane water tanks over the years. In 2013, NBC reported that the water used for coffee or tea on flights is connected to the aircraft’s water tank. A flight attendant also claimed on her TikTok account, “The airplane’s water tank is rarely cleaned. Ask the crew—we hardly ever drink coffee or tea.”
Janowicz further explained, “Alcohol can dehydrate you and make you feel groggy and tired after the flight. Due to the pressure changes in the cabin, a person will get intoxicated faster drinking in-flight than on the ground.” He also cautioned against carbonated drinks, which can cause gas and abdominal bloating.
Most Commented