
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest airports in the country, serving millions of travellers each year. The airport offers a variety of dining options, ranging from fast food to specialty restaurants. When it comes to bringing food through security, solid foods such as sandwiches, fruit, and snacks are generally allowed. However, there are guidelines and restrictions set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that travellers must follow. Liquids and gels, including drinks, soups, and sauces, are typically prohibited unless they are in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and placed in a clear, quart-sized bag. It is important to note that additional screening may be required for certain food items, and the final decision rests with the TSA officer. To save time, travellers can sign up for TSA PreCheck or use the Reserve by CLEAR program to expedite the security process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you take food through security? | Yes, solid foods are allowed. |
| Liquids and gels | Prohibited unless in 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers. |
| International flights | Additional rules may prohibit certain foods, including meats, meat products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. |
| Customs | Declare any food items when asked to do so. |
| Screening | All food must go through the X-ray machine for screening. |
| Metal detectors | Food items may trigger metal detectors and require additional screening. |
| Security checks | All passengers must go through a security check, including a body scan and luggage X-ray. |
| TSA PreCheck | Qualifying flyers can use a dedicated lane to zip through security in 5 minutes or less. |
| Reserve by CLEAR | A free program to reserve a specific time to go through security. |
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What You'll Learn
- Liquids and gels are prohibited, but small amounts are allowed in a clear, quart-sized bag
- Solid foods are allowed, but must be screened via X-ray
- Food items may trigger the metal detector, requiring additional screening
- International flights may prohibit certain foods, including meats, fruits, and vegetables
- Orlando International Airport has an app that provides estimated security line wait times

Liquids and gels are prohibited, but small amounts are allowed in a clear, quart-sized bag
Liquids and gels are prohibited and must not go through security. This includes items such as drinks, soups, and sauces. However, small amounts of liquids and gels are allowed in a clear, quart-sized bag. This is known as the 3-1-1 rule, which means you can carry containers that hold 3.4 ounces or 100ml or less of liquid or gel. Each passenger is allowed to carry one such bag, which must be placed in a bin for screening.
The 3-1-1 rule has some exceptions. Baby food and formula are allowed in reasonable quantities, and passengers may be asked to open the containers for inspection. Medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, are also allowed in reasonable quantities.
It is important to note that some food items may trigger the metal detector or require additional screening. If this happens, passengers should cooperate with security personnel, who are responsible for ensuring the safety of all passengers. The final decision on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
To save time at Orlando International Airport, passengers can use TSA PreCheck, which allows qualifying flyers to go through security in 5 minutes or less without removing their 3-1-1 bag, laptop, shoes, belt, or jacket. The program is open to US citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents, and costs $78.
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$18.46

Solid foods are allowed, but must be screened via X-ray
When travelling through Orlando International Airport (MCO), it's important to plan ahead and be aware of the rules and restrictions regarding food items. Solid foods, such as sandwiches, fruit, pastries, beef jerky, and snacks, are generally allowed through airport security. However, these items must be screened via X-ray to ensure they meet the safety guidelines set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The TSA has strict guidelines in place to prevent any potential security threats, and all carry-on luggage is scanned through an X-ray machine. While solid foods are permitted, it's important to note that liquids, gels, and pastes are subject to the 3-1-1 rule. This means that passengers are allowed to carry containers holding 3.4 ounces or 100ml of liquid or gel in their hand luggage. Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag of such liquids and gels, which must be removed from the carry-on luggage and placed in a separate bin for screening.
Some food items may trigger the metal detector or require additional screening. In such cases, it is important to cooperate with the security personnel, as they are ensuring the safety of all passengers. It is recommended to follow the guidelines and restrictions set by the TSA to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Additionally, MCO offers a few options to expedite the security process. TSA PreCheck allows qualifying flyers to go through security quickly, usually in 5 minutes or less, without having to remove their 3-1-1 bag, laptop, shoes, belt, or jacket. This is a members-only program that requires an application, background check, and fingerprinting. Another option is Reserve by CLEAR, a free program that allows passengers to reserve a specific time slot to go through a dedicated security lane, reducing wait times.
By planning ahead, being aware of the restrictions, and utilising the available options, passengers travelling through Orlando International Airport can efficiently navigate security while carrying solid food items.
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Food items may trigger the metal detector, requiring additional screening
Food items are allowed through security at Orlando International Airport, but they must follow the guidelines and restrictions set by the TSA. Solid foods such as sandwiches, fruit, and snacks can be taken through airport security, but they must go through an X-ray machine for screening. Liquids and gels fall under the prohibited items list and cannot be taken through security. This includes items such as drinks, soups, and
However, some food items may trigger the metal detector or require additional screening. If this happens, it is important to remain calm and cooperate with security. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of all passengers and their belongings. It is within their remit to ask you to power up your electronic devices, and any powerless devices will not be permitted onboard.
The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Food items may be subject to additional screening or not permitted through the checkpoint if they trigger an alarm during the screening process, appear to have been tampered with, or pose other security concerns.
To save time at Orlando International Airport, it is recommended to arrive 3 hours in advance for international flights. Additionally, TSA PreCheck lets qualifying flyers move through security quickly, usually in 5 minutes or less, without having to remove shoes, belts, and jackets.
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International flights may prohibit certain foods, including meats, fruits, and vegetables
When travelling through Orlando International Airport, it's important to keep in mind that different rules apply depending on whether you're on a domestic or international flight. While solid foods like sandwiches, cookies, chips, fruit, and pastries are generally allowed through security, international flights may have stricter regulations.
For international travel, additional rules may prohibit certain foods, including meats, meat products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. These restrictions are typically related to customs and the potential impact on agriculture in the destination country. It's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for your destination country before packing food in your carry-on luggage.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest airports in the country, so it's essential to allow ample time for security checks. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport three hours before an international flight's departure time. This will ensure there is enough time to check bags, go through security, and locate the correct gate.
To streamline the security process, passengers can take advantage of programs like TSA PreCheck or Reserve by CLEAR, which offer expedited screening and reserved security lane times, respectively. These programs can help reduce wait times and make navigating the airport more efficient.
When bringing food through airport security, it's crucial to follow the guidelines set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Solid foods are typically allowed, but liquids and gels must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule, meaning containers must hold 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a clear, quart-sized bag. Any food items may be subject to additional screening or restrictions if they trigger an alarm during the security screening process.
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Orlando International Airport has an app that provides estimated security line wait times
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest airports in the country, so it's advisable to arrive early to ensure you have enough time to get through security and find your gate. The MCO recommends arriving three hours before a domestic flight, which is an hour longer than the general rule of thumb.
To help you plan your time more efficiently, the airport has an app that provides estimated security line wait times. The MCO app is free and available for both Android and iPhone users. It also helps you navigate the airport, find your car in the parking lot, and provides information on shopping and dining options.
There are also other ways to save time in the security line at MCO. For example, CLEAR is a free program that lets you reserve a time to go through a dedicated security lane. You can make a reservation for up to 10 people, and you can enter the CLEAR lane up to 20 minutes before or after your chosen time.
Another option is TSA PreCheck, a members-only program that allows qualifying flyers to go through security in five minutes or less without removing their 3-1-1 bag, laptop, shoes, belt, or jacket. It costs $78 to join and is open to U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents.
When it comes to bringing food through security at Orlando Airport, you can take solid foods like sandwiches, cookies, chips, fruit, and pastries. However, additional rules may prohibit certain foods on international flights, such as meats and meat products, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Liquids are also not allowed through security, but you can bring small packets or containers (3.4 oz or 100 ml) that have the size clearly printed on them.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can take food through security at Orlando Airport, but it must follow the guidelines and restrictions set by the TSA. Solid foods are allowed, but liquids and gels must follow the 3-1-1 rule.
The 3-1-1 rule means that you can take containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less of liquid or gel. Each passenger can have one quart-sized bag of liquids and gels, which must be placed in a bin for screening.
Liquids, gels, and foods that contain liquid or gel are prohibited. This includes drinks, soups, sauces, and foods with sauces. Foods that are considered liquids at room temperature, such as peanut butter, are also prohibited unless in containers of 3.4 ounces or less.
Solid foods such as sandwiches, wraps, burritos, salads, snacks, fruit, chips, pastries, and cookies are allowed.











































