If you find the food on flights to be bland, this is what you should do (rather have)

The low humidity in airplane cabins can cause dehydration, which can affect our taste buds, said Dr Sangeeta Tiwari, clinical nutritionist, Artemis Hospitals

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | May 3, 2024 10:32 AM IST

3 min read

What do you have on a flight? (Source: Freepik)

Do you feel that the food served on flights tastes less appetising and, sometimes, even bland? Worry not, neither are you the only one who feels so nor is there anything wrong with the food. The reason behind the food tasting so is a result of high altitude, low cabin pressure, and dryness in the flight which dulls your sense of taste, experts suggest.

“Low humidity in airplane cabins can cause dehydration, which can affect taste buds and make flavours seem less intense,” said Dr Sangeeta Tiwari, clinical nutritionist, Artemis Hospitals.

So, what can help?

Tomato juice is becoming the most preferred in-flight beverage.

“Tomato juice, with its rich and savoury taste, stands out in such an environment. Its umami flavour profile becomes more pronounced, making it more appealing to the taste buds of many passengers,” Tiwari told indianexpress.com.

Understanding the phenomenon

The combination of reduced air pressure and dry cabin air can dull our taste buds, making sweet and salty flavours less noticeable. “Tomato juice, with its slightly acidic and salty taste, can cut through this dullness and provide a refreshing burst of flavour,” Tiwari said.

Additionally, tomato juice is rich in nutrients like vitamins A and C, and potassium. Of these, vitamin C, and potassium helps in managing blood pressure levels and strengthen the immune system not only on the ground level but up in the air too,” shared Dr Rajeshwari Panda, HOD, nutrition and dietetics department, Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai. “These nutrients can help replenish some of the essential elements that passengers may lose during long flights, such as electrolytes and antioxidants. Furthermore, the presence of electrolytes can help in combating the effects of dehydration, making tomato juice a hydrating option,” said Tiwari.

Tomato juice is rich in nutrients like vitamins A and C, and potassium (Source: Pixabay)

Agreeing, Dr Panda said that the “wonderful” tomato juice does wonders for your health by perking up your mood and providing quick energy. “It contains antioxidants like lycopene that reduce inflammation,” Dr Panda added.

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When compared to alcoholic beverages that leave you lethargic during a flight journey, the high water content in tomatoes helps keep you refreshed and hydrated throughout the journey, mentioned Dr Panda.

So, next time you are flying, don’t forget to have tomato juice!

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