Skip to content
LL
Liquid Limits

Can I take hummus on a plane? The spreadable food rule explained

Last updated Updated 8 weeks ago· Reviewed against current airport security guidance

Short answer

Hummus is spreadable, which means TSA, UK and EU security all count it as a liquid. In cabin baggage you're capped at a 100ml pot (or 2L at a CT-scanner airport). In checked luggage you can take as much as you like.

General guidance

Rule basis: General airport security guidance — rules can vary between airports and change over time. Confirm with your departure airport before you fly.

What to do: Pack to 100ml per container in a single 1-litre clear bag unless you've confirmed a larger allowance at both your departure airports.

Liquid Limits is a travel planning tool, not an official aviation source. Always confirm with the airport before you travel.

Quick answer

Yes — but only in a container 100ml or smaller in your cabin bag, inside your 1-litre liquids bag. Any size is fine in checked luggage.

Cabin vs checked

TypeCabinChecked
Single-serve pot (≤100ml)Yes, in 1L bagYes
Standard 200g supermarket tubNoYes
Family-size tubNoYes
Dried hummus mix (powder)YesYes

Customs & international

Hummus is fine for most domestic and intra-EU travel. Heading into the US, Australia, NZ or the UK from abroad, declare any home-made or unsealed food on the customs form. Sealed shop-bought tubs are usually waved through.

Packing tips

  • Decant into a 100ml travel pot if you really need it on board
  • Freeze it solid in checked baggage so it doesn't leak
  • Bag it twice — hummus oil will ruin clothes
  • Buy it after security if you can

FAQs

Why is hummus a liquid?

Security defines anything spreadable, smearable or pourable as a liquid. Hummus fits all three.

What about hummus and crackers snack packs?

The hummus pot still has to be ≤100ml. The crackers don't count.

Can I take hummus through TSA?

Yes, under the 3-1-1 rule — 100ml/3.4oz per container, all inside one quart-size bag.

Check your trip

Related guides