Viral Video Breaks Down How Much Sugar Is In An Airline Box Meal

When it comes to airline food, we usually get very few options. However, do you ever wonder how much sugar is in the generic sandwich or breakfast meal you're ordering in the plane? Instagram's favourite gut health expert Dr. Pal Manickam recently took to social media to shed light on the amount of added sugar in a meal box from a popular airline and needless to say, the Internet has a lot to say.

In his latest video, the well-known gastroenterologist revealed just how much sugar passengers consume in a single in-flight meal. According to Dr Manickam, the amount of sugar present is alarmingly high, especially when considering the recommended daily limit in India, which is around 25 grams.

During the video, Dr. Manickam humorously pointed out that the long ramp leading to the aircraft might be there to help passengers burn off some extra calories before they board. The meal box he examined contained a few standard items, starting with a pack of mixed juice that alone had 15 grams of sugar.

Additionally, the box included a chicken sandwich and a pack of butter cookies, the latter contributing another 4 grams of sugar. A small ketchup packet also added 2 grams to the total sugar content. Altogether, the meal box amounted to approximately 21 grams of added sugar, edging close to the daily limit recommended for sugar intake in India.

He then reminds that 25 grams of sugar is recommended for daily consumption, and is even lower for women. The point he is trying to make in the video is that food with equivalent amounts of sugar to the daily limit is served as a meal on flights, which people should be aware of before consuming.

The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests an added-sugar limit of no more than 24 grams for most adult women and no more than 36 grams of sugar for most men. Netizens had a lot to say about the video which broke the sugar content of regular airline food.

"India should start providing natural food rather than processed. This way, it contributes to passengers' health, local agriculture & also in a way promotes local food to tourists . its a win-win," a follower commented.

"Most airlines serve carb and sugars laden snacks and meals. Def a change /improvement needs to happen in this area," wrote another.