Herbs Under Scrutiny: Airport Screening Techniques And Protocols

Airport security systems use different screening instruments for checking purposes, and each screening object or metal detector has its own purpose. These scanners are an essential part of the airport, and you will not be able to board your flight until you have been checked by these scanners. The primary purpose of these scanners is to go through passengers' luggage and safely recognise unlawful devices.

Some airport baggage scanner machines use ionising radiation for detecting luggage, while some have non-ionising radiation. Metal detectors are installed in these scanners, creating magnetic fields in the surroundings through electricity. If there is any metal, the magnetic radiation will bounce back on the walls of the scanner and result in a beeping sound.

Airport scanners can detect liquids, metals, and drugs. The scanners are designed to detect narcotics and drugs hidden in luggage or clothing. If you pass through a full-body scanner, electromagnetic waves and radiation will provide an image of any drugs on the screen. These scanners can also detect gold because gold is a metallic object with low conductivity, so the high-frequency radiation of the scanner will easily see it.

Any biological material, including herbs, will look orange on an airport scanner. A TSA agent will pay extra close attention to any item that appears orange on the scanner as explosives are made up of organic materials.

Herb packaging and odour

When it comes to travelling with herbs, it's important to consider the packaging and any odours that may escape.

Firstly, it is important to check with your airline and the customs regulations of your destination country before bringing any herbs on a plane. Different airlines and countries have varying rules and restrictions when it comes to herbs. Some airlines may only allow dried herbs, while others may not permit any fresh herbs at all.

If you are allowed to bring herbs, it is important to consider the packaging. Depending on the airline and country’s regulations, there may be restrictions on the type of containers you can use and how you package your herbs. For example, some countries may require that all herbal products are sealed in airtight containers to prevent contamination.

To prevent odours from escaping, you may want to consider smell-proof packaging. This type of packaging is designed to contain and prevent the escape of odours. It is commonly used for items such as coffee, herbal teas, snacks, and other items that need to keep the smell in. Smell-proof packaging can be made from materials such as Mylar® bags, which are composed of a remarkable polyester film that creates an impervious defence against moisture, light, and oxygen. Alternatively, you can use Kraft Paper with Foil Lining, which creates a formidable fortress against odours while also maintaining a natural aesthetic.

When packing herbs for air travel, it is recommended to use an airtight container to prevent them from getting crushed and to keep them fresh. Small plastic containers or ziplock bags work well for this purpose. Make sure to seal the container properly to avoid any leaks or spills. It is also a good idea to keep the container small to avoid taking up too much space in your luggage and to pack it in your carry-on bag to avoid rigorous screening that could damage the herbs.

Airport scanner colours

Airport X-ray scanners produce images in three colours: orange, blue, and green. Each colour corresponds to a different type of material.

Orange represents organic material, such as food, paper, clothing, and explosives.

Blue represents inorganic substances, including metals, jewellery, electronics, and ceramics.

Green represents mixed substances, which are a combination of organic and inorganic materials. Examples include batteries, packaged goods, and composite tools.

The brightness of the colours on the scanner is correlated with the thickness of the material. Thicker materials will appear brighter due to higher absorption levels of X-rays, while thinner materials will be less bright.

It is important to accurately interpret these colours to identify potential threats and ensure prohibited items do not make it past security checkpoints.

In addition to the colours, security personnel also consider the textures and patterns on the scanner. Evenly coloured objects usually indicate a single type of material, while mixed colours or uneven textures might suggest complex items like electronics or composite materials.

Hiding spots

When it comes to hiding spots for herbs at the airport, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to know the laws and regulations of the country you are travelling to and from, as these may vary. For example, while some states have legalised weed, there are still restrictions on the quantity you can carry. It's also important to note that not all types of marijuana are legal, so be sure to do your research before attempting to bring any herbs through airport security.

With that being said, here are some potential hiding spots for herbs when going through airport security:

• Shampoo and moisturiser bottles: Although it may seem strange, these are actually one of the best hiding spots for marijuana. However, be aware that if you are caught, you will likely have to expose the contents of all your bottles.
• Body cavities: This is a risky strategy, but hiding herbs in body cavities is a way to avoid detection by airport scanners. Unless there is a bomb threat, it is unlikely that officials will perform a full-body search.
• Airtight containers: If you are carrying herbs in your luggage, placing them in an airtight container can help to prevent the smell from escaping and drawing attention.
• Pill containers: Packing herbs in empty, opaque pill containers with a cotton ball on top can help to disguise them as vitamins or medications. Putting these containers in a toiletries bag along with other pills or vitamins can also help them blend in and avoid detection.
• Toiletry bags: Bringing an extra toiletry bag or two can provide additional space to distribute herbs among similar-looking items without drawing attention. For example, a small glass jar of extract can blend in with shampoo or lip balm.
• Make-up bag: Loose vape cartridges can often be disguised as mascara or perfume and packed in a make-up bag.
• Food items: Edibles can be packed with similar-looking snacks in either carry-on or checked baggage. Just be mindful of restrictions on food items and be prepared for potential inspection.

While these strategies may help increase the chances of getting herbs through airport security undetected, it is important to comply with local laws and regulations to avoid potential legal consequences.

Airport dogs

Dogs are employed at airports as sniffer agents due to their powerful sense of smell. A German Retriever's nose, for instance, contains about 300 million sensory nodes, compared to a mere six million in humans. This heightened sense of smell allows dogs to detect the most subtle of scents, including the terpenes in different strains of weed.

At airports, sniffer dogs are primarily used to detect explosives, with the K9 units of the TSA and police trained to identify the individual smell of bomb components, like nitroglycerin. These dogs are trained to discern the smallest details, and their sense of smell is so advanced that they can even detect different flavored edibles.

While drug-sniffing dogs do exist, they are not typically found at airports. Instead, they are deployed at venues such as concerts, where the operators want to control what substances are brought into the venue. Bomb-sniffing dogs receive far more rigorous training than drug-sniffing dogs, including training to attack dangerous suspects.

When travelling with herbs, it is important to be aware of the relevant regulations. While dried herbs and herbal supplements in pill or capsule form are generally permitted in carry-on or checked baggage, fresh herbs are typically prohibited. This is because fresh herbs are considered potential carriers of pests or diseases, which could pose a threat to the environment or agriculture of the destination location.

If you plan to travel with herbs, it is crucial to check the specific rules and restrictions of the airline and the customs regulations of your destination. Some countries may require a phytosanitary certificate, confirming that the herbs are free from pests and diseases, while others may mandate that herbal products are sealed in airtight containers.

Local laws

When traveling with herbs, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations of the destination country or state to avoid any legal issues. The regulations regarding the possession, transportation, and consumption of herbs can vary significantly across different regions. Here is a detailed overview of the key considerations regarding local laws when dealing with herbs and airport travel:

In most countries, the possession and consumption of certain herbs, particularly those with medicinal or therapeutic properties, are governed by specific laws and regulations. These laws can vary in restrictiveness and may fall under the jurisdiction of various agencies or departments. For example, in some countries, the ministry of health regulates the use and distribution of herbal products, while in others, it may be the responsibility of a food and drug administration or a similar entity. Understanding the specific laws and governing bodies in your destination country is essential to ensure compliance.

Many countries have strict regulations regarding the importation of plant materials, including herbs. These regulations are often in place to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species, pests, and diseases that could potentially damage local ecosystems and agriculture. As such, travelers may be required to declare any plant-based products, including herbs, upon arrival and provide appropriate documentation. This could include import permits, phytosanitary certificates, or proof that the herbs have been processed or treated to mitigate any potential risks. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines, confiscation of the herbs, or even legal repercussions.

The specific laws and regulations regarding herbs can vary depending on the type, quantity, and intended use. For example, some countries may allow the possession and consumption of small amounts of certain herbs for personal use but prohibit their sale or distribution. Additionally, there may be restrictions on the import or export of certain herb species that are considered endangered, protected, or of conservation concern. It is important to research the specific laws pertaining to the types of herbs you intend to travel with to ensure compliance and avoid any unintended legal consequences.

Finally, it is important to stay updated with any changes or amendments to the local laws and regulations regarding herbs. These laws can evolve over time, and what may have been compliant during a previous trip could become non-compliant during a future journey. Regularly checking the websites of relevant government departments or embassies can help ensure that you have the most current information. Additionally, it is advisable to seek guidance from official sources or legal professionals if you have any doubts or concerns about the legality of traveling with herbs.

Frequently asked questions