TSA is coming for your snacks — here are 7 surprising items they've confiscated

Yahoo

2 days ago

They may look solid, but they break one very important rule — and they're on TSA's no-fly list for carry-ons.
You packed your bag like a pro. You've got your refillable water bottle, your compression socks, and of course, your favorite snack for the plane. But then security flags your bag, pulls you aside, and out comes the hummus. Turns out, that creamy travel treat? It counts as a liquid. And if it's over 3.4 ounces, it's not going anywhere but the TSA trash bin.
The 3-1-1 rule for liquids has been around since 2006, but every summer it catches travelers off guard, especially when it comes to food. And this year, TSA is doubling down on enforcement, reminding passengers that spreadable = suspicious. Here are the snacks getting confiscated most often at checkpoints right now, and what to pack instead.
Hummus
This one gets people all the time. Even when it comes in a travel-friendly snack pack with pretzels, hummus is considered a spreadable liquid, and that means it falls under the 3.4-ounce rule. Unless it's frozen solid or in a super tiny container, you'll probably have to part ways at the checkpoint. If you need a salty bite on board, go for dry-roasted chickpeas or bring pita chips and save the dip for after landing.
Peanut butter
Peanut butter looks deceptively safe, but TSA sees it the same way they do lotion or toothpaste: it spreads, so it's a liquid.Single-serve cups can still be too big, and even squeezable packets have gotten flagged depending on the agent. Nut butter–filled pretzels or granola bars with peanut butter baked in are a much safer bet.
Yogurt
A lot of people assume yogurt cups are good to go, especially the kid-sized ones. But most are over the limit, and TSA considers them gels, so if they're not frozen, they're fair game for removal. You're better off with a frozen yogurt tube (which might pass if solid) or just grabbing one once you're past security.
Soft cheeses
It doesn't matter how expensive your triple-cream Brie is—if it's soft enough to smear on a cracker, TSA's tossing it. Spreadable cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and even some blue cheeses are all considered too liquid-adjacent to fly. Stick to firm cheeses like cheddar, manchego, or a vacuum-packed mozzarella stick.
Salsa
Salsa also causes confusion. Yes, even the chunky kind. If it sloshes or spoons, it's out—no matter how airtight the container is. A dry snack with bold seasoning, like Tajín-dusted mango or chili-lime nuts, hits the same craving without the mess.
Pudding cups
Pudding gets flagged for the same reason as yogurt and hummus: it's soft, creamy, and easily spreadable, which puts it squarely in the 'gel' category. And unfortunately, even small snack packs usually exceed the volume limit. Try something like a banana, a brownie, or fruit leather if you want a sweet option that won't cause drama at security.
Honey
Honey seems innocent, especially in souvenir jars from a local farm or gift shop. But TSA sees it as a liquid through and through, and unless you're carrying it in one of those hotel-sized portions, it's not coming on board. If you're traveling with a sweet tooth, pack honey sticks or pick up a jar at your destination instead.
How to avoid snack heartbreak at security
TSA's basic rule of thumb? If you can spread it or slurp it, you can't bring it, unless it's under 3.4 oz and fits in a quart-sized bag. That includes a lot of snacks people assume are safe, especially when they come in single-serve packaging.
When in doubt:
• Freeze it (some agents will let frozen items through)
• Pack dry snacks only in your carry-on
• Check your bag if you need your gourmet picnic intact
Because nothing ruins your travel vibe faster than surrendering a $12 wedge of Brie before takeoff. Lastly, if you wanna double check get a little bit more information or want to see what else can come with you and get your carry-on or checked bags take a look at TSA's What Can I Bring? page a database of edible and non-Advil carry-on items that are either allowed or have specific rules.
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