Why Does Airplane Food Taste So Bland?

Berfin Ceren Meray
Onedio Member
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Ever wondered why airplane food tastes so much different from what you eat on the ground? It's not just the plastic trays or limited menus—science has the answer! Discover the fascinating reasons why your in-flight meals may not hit the same flavor notes and what factors play a role in this taste transformation. 

Get ready to rethink your next airplane meal! 🍴✈️

According to Dr. Robert Pellegrino, there are three main factors that affect our sense of taste during a flight: low cabin pressure, low humidity, and high noise levels.

Low pressure and lack of humidity make it more difficult for us to perceive smells. When our noses dry out, we become unable to sense smells properly. Since taste and smell are closely linked, this directly impacts the flavor of the food we eat.

High noise levels also alter our perception of taste. A 2015 study found that the noise in an airplane cabin reduces our ability to perceive sweetness but enhances umami flavors.

According to Dr. Pellegrino, no matter how special the menus are, the taste of food on an airplane will always differ from the taste on the ground.

In short, the flavor of food on an airplane is not only influenced by the quality of the food itself, but also by the effects of pressure, humidity, noise, and the overall environment.