Why Airplane Food Tastes Weird (And How to Make It Better)

Air travel can be an exciting yet exhausting experience. One of the most discussed aspects of flying is, undoubtedly, the food served on airplanes. For many passengers, the taste of airplane food often leaves something to be desired. Have you ever wondered why airplane food tastes weird? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and offer insights into how to make it better.

To understand why airplane food sometimes tastes off, we first need to consider the unique environment of an airplane. When a plane ascends to cruising altitude, typically around 35,000 feet, the atmosphere on board changes dramatically. The low cabin pressure and humidity levels can significantly affect our sense of taste and smell. Studies have shown that at high altitudes, our taste buds become less sensitive, which is why that chicken entrée may taste bland or unappetizing.

Cabin Conditions

The humidity inside an airplane cabin is often less than 20%, much lower than what we experience on the ground. This dry environment can affect our perception of flavor, as our noses are less able to detect aromas, which are key to experiencing taste. With diminished senses, it’s no surprise that gourmet meals we might enjoy on the ground can taste flat or unappealing in the air.

Additionally, the pressure inside an airplane cabin is much lower than at sea level. The atmospheric pressure on an aircraft can change our bodies' responses to food as well. With these combined factors, it’s understandable that preparing meals suitable for consumption at high altitudes presents significant challenges for chefs and catering companies.

Food Preparation and Storage

Another element to consider when discussing airplane food is the method of preparation and storage. Airlines often use pre-packaged meals that are prepared in bulk and then stored in freezers or refrigerated containers while on the ground. These meals are then heated briefly before serving. This process of bulk cooking and reheating can lead to a loss of texture and flavor.

Moreover, the meals selected for airplanes must be designed to withstand the rigors of travel. Foods that may spoil or go bad quickly are generally avoided, resulting in the use of more processed ingredients. While these measures ensure food safety, they can also lead to compromises in taste and quality.

Menu Selection

Menu selection is also a significant factor in how airplane food is perceived. Airlines typically strive to strike a balance between popular dishes and those that can be prepared in a way that holds up during flight. Common choices include pasta, chicken, and beef dishes which are generally safe bets for the majority of passengers. However, these choices often lack the vibrant, fresh flavors that can be found in other cuisines due to their unavailability at high altitudes.

When it comes to seasoning, things get even trickier. Many airlines use less salt when preparing meals. High altitude corresponds to a greater sensitivity to sweetness, which means that food can also taste sweeter than usual when flying. Some airlines are actively adjusting their recipes by using more spices or strong flavors to compensate for this. For instance, adding garlic, onion, and herbs can help boost flavor, although some common spices can exacerbate the dryness caused by the cabin conditions.

Understanding Palate Changes

So how do flavors change when we fly? According to the research conducted by food scientists, our thresholds for taste can shift while in the air. While sweet and salty flavors become amplified, sour and bitter flavors may become muted. As a result, a dish that may taste well-balanced on the ground might not deliver the same experience at cruising altitude.

Vegetables, which are often supposed to add freshness and vibrancy to a dish, can lose their impact due to dehydration and cooking. This means that the components of a dish need to be carefully adjusted for the unique sensory experience of dining at 35,000 feet.

Improving Airplane Food

Now that we've explored the reasons for why airplane food tastes weird, what can we do to make it better? The airline industry has been increasingly aware of the issues surrounding onboard meals and began implementing various changes to enhance the gastronomic experience for passengers. Here are several ways that airlines and passengers can improve airplane meals:

1. Innovative Meal Options: Some airlines are collaborating with celebrity chefs to bring culinary expertise aboard. By incorporating innovative meal options, airlines can create more exciting and flavorful menus that cater to the tastes and preferences of diverse passengers.

2. Smart Seasoning: A common trend among airlines is to enhance dishes with spices while avoiding excessive salt. Bold flavors can help compensate for the muted taste sensations experienced at high altitudes. Passengers can also ask for extra sauces or spices to elevate their meal experience.

3. Fresh Ingredients: As much as feasible, airlines are now looking for ways to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into their meals. This can help deliver an experience that is more reflective of fine dining, even when flying.

4. Customized Options: Airlines can personalize meals based on dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more, which can enhance satisfaction and overall impression of the food served in-flight.

5. Increased Collaboration with Nutritionists: Collaborating with nutritionists can ensure that meals are not only tasty but also balanced and healthy, appealing to health-conscious travelers.

Passengers’ Role

While airlines play a significant role in how airplane food is experienced, passengers can also take certain steps to improve their in-flight dining experience. Here are a few tips for travelers to consider:

1. Bring Snacks: If you're worried about airplane food, consider packing your own snacks. Nut mixes, energy bars, or even pre-packaged gourmet meals that you enjoy can serve as great alternatives.

2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is more likely at high altitudes, and drinking plenty of water before and during a flight can keep your taste buds functioning optimally. Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol can also help.

3. Special Meal Requests: Many airlines allow passengers to request special meals ahead of time. This option can include cuisines that may be less familiar but could be more flavorful and satisfying.

4. Mindset Shift: Sometimes, adjusting your expectations can lead to a more enjoyable experience. Instead of expecting gourmet cuisine, approach airplane food as a novel experience. This mindset can help make the meal more palatable.

Conclusion

Airplane food may have garnered an infamous reputation over the years, but understanding the factors that contribute to its taste can shed light on this multi-dimensional issue. From cabin pressure and humidity to food preparation and menu selection, numerous variables come into play. As airlines innovate and seek to enhance their in-flight meal offerings, passengers can also make choices that improve their dining experience. By staying informed and experimenting with new flavors, the next in-flight meal could become a surprisingly enjoyable part of your flying adventure.