What you should know about airline food

I’ve never heard the words airline food and good in the same sentence. Well except that one red-eye flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong I took in the past—midnight dim sum and chicken noodle broth, yum. Other than that one time though, let’s face it, airline food sucks. Sorry.

Lucky for us though, airlines are attempting to improve their in-flight food and have recently unveiled some mouth-watering and appetizing menus. Continental Airlines’ menu features warm gourmet sandwiches like oven-roasted turkey with gouda cheese and among one of my favorites, roast beef on rye. Delta Airlines was able to snag renowned celebrity chef Todd English and has introduced new entrees such as smoked salmon and egg salad croissants and roast beef steak cobb sandwiches. This past summer, Charlie Trotter teamed with United Airlines to serve meals like citrus-cured smoked salmon and sweet crab salad.

Only a few airlines have attempted to revamp such menus, for those that haven’t let’s take a closer look at what’s really in your airline food. It’s no secret that the snacks provided by airlines are full of unhealthy fats and calories. The latest DietDetective review of airline food suggests it may be a lot worse than you think. Individually packed snacks are often oversized and have tons of calories. Such snacks should really be for a family for three or four, and not one person. Smarter travelers should prepare beforehand and purchase healthier food options; buy food at the airport and bring it on the plane. Don’t go hungry on a long flight because of the unhealthy food selection.

For those wanting to try the new and improved in-flight meals, don’t forget to bring cash or pray to the airline gods for an upgrade. The Todd English meals are only available to first and business class passengers, and on a few select transcontinental domestic flights. However, you can purchase some of his selections in economy for between $2 and $10.

Lastly, contact your airline at least a day in advance and ask about “the secret menu”. I’m talking about entrees for individuals with diet restrictions like diabetics, vegetarians and vegans. Make sure to call in for this and you can order it right over the phone.

Flights

Hotels

Cars

From (City/Airport)

To (City/Airport)

Departure Date

Return Date

Number of Tickets