The old joke by standup comedian Jerry Seinfeld is based on a real complaint about airline food that remains true for most people. There is just something about it that inspires disgusted looks and unfinished plates for anyone who partakes in the meal far above the clouds. What if the blame for the poor taste lies less with the food itself and more with where it is being served?
There is a good amount of research that suggests that the setting of an airplane alters our perception of how things taste. One such factor is the pressurization of the cabin, which can influence our taste buds. With the pressure being lower than what we are used to, it can dull our ability to taste sweet and salty things. Pretzels, a common snack found with flights, can be affected by this pressure.
The humidity can also be a contributing factor to this phenomenon. The smells of food often influence the taste as well, with our minds often linking the two senses together. Because the humidity is lowered in planes, the dry air affects our noses and mouths, reducing the aroma that it has. Research even suggests that noise pollution can affect tastes, adding another sense that is working against us.
Of course, there are also reasons that point to the food being the problem too. The lower quality ingredients and preparation are factors that can’t be overlooked, but the food would likely be perceived much better if it were being eaten on land. So, the next time you’re about to complain to the attendants about the food, remember that the environment affects you a lot more than you think.
