Can You Bring Hummus On A Plane?

Last Updated on September 12, 2022

Hummus TSA Rules

The Transportation Security Administration controls the airport security checkpoint.

Here’s what they say about bringing hummus on a plane:

You can pack hummus in checked luggage without restriction.

When it comes to carry-on luggage hummus is considered a liquid by the TSA. You can only bring hummus in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and it must be packed in your quart-size bag along with your toiletries.

If you want to bring more than 3.4 oz of hummus you’ll need more than one container. The problem is you can only fit so many containers in your quart-size bag. 

All spreadable food items are restricted in hand luggage. Solid food items, like choppped veggies that you would use for dipping in hummus are permitted through the checkpoint.

Here’s the interesting thing about flying with hummus…

If the hummus is packed in a separate container it falls under the 3-1-1 rule.

But if the hummus is part of something else then you might be able to get it through the security checkpoint.

For example, I asked the TSA if I could bring a wrap filled with hummus and veggies through the checkpoint:

The TSA eventually replied that I could bring a hummus filled wrap on to the plane.

Obviously this doesn’t help you bring your homemade hummus on a trip to give to grandma as a gift.

But if you just love to eat hummus and want to consume a hummus-based snack during your flight then you can try this technique.

The ingredients to make homemade hummus are mostly airport security friendly. You can bring chickpeas, sesame seeds, garlic, and a lemon on a plane. Only a little olive oil would need to go in your quart-size bag. You’d need to find a blender or a food processor at your destination though since these have blades meaning they can only be packed in checked luggage.

The other way to bring more than 3.4 oz of hummus through airport security is to freeze it.

You can bring frozen hummus through the airport security checkpoint since it will be treated like a solid.

The hummus needs to be frozen solid when presented for screening. You’d also need to discard any melted or slushy ice. Dry ice would be another way to do it.

Whether you’d bringing hummus inside a sandwich or a wrap or trying to bring frozen hummus the final decision is always taken by the TSA agent who inspects your luggage.