Man Alleges ‘Higher Sodium’ in IndiGo’s Upma and Poha Than in Maggi Airline Reacts

Travelers often lament the “poor quality” food and drinks that are provided aboard airplanes. Airlines continue to face criticism for their almost uneatable meals, from finding insects in food to receiving stale things. In related news, a social media influencer has recently brought attention to yet another drawback of airplane food: she claims that some of the pre-packaged meals provided by IndiGo have “high sodium” content. Revant Himatsingka, a.k.a. Food Pharmer, is a prominent health influencer who posted a video of the food that the aircraft serves aboard. Even though his startling remark caused quite a stir among consumers, IndiGo quickly refuted the allegations.

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https://x.com/foodpharmer2/status/1780562185984639400

The influencer argues that some food products, including dal chawal, poha, and upma, contain more salt than Maggi in his video.

“Most of us are already aware that Maggi contains a lot of salt! The majority of people are unaware that Daal Chawal has the same amount of sodium as Maggi, Indigo’s Poha has around 83% more sodium than Maggi, and Indigo’s Magic Upma has 50% more sodium than Maggi,” the caption on the photo said. Revant went on to say that while these foods may seem healthy, they are really much riskier than junk food.

The influencer said that consumers don’t notice the increased salt in aircraft meals because their taste receptors are less sensitive at high altitudes.

He said that Indians are already heavy salt consumers, which raises blood pressure and may lead to hypertension, heart problems, and renal problems.

Money Control said that IndiGo Airlines immediately released a statement restating its commitment to provide customers with wholesome and safe food alternatives. They said, “Passengers have the option of choosing from freshly prepared pre-booked meals or purchasing pre-packaged food products on board,” emphasizing that all the food items conform to stringent FSSAI rules. Certain pre-packaged goods are prepared using traditional Indian methods, and their salt level is well within allowed limits.

Users’ reactions to the video have generated a lot of attention, despite IndiGo’s vehement denial of the allegations.

“Who would have imagined that our ‘healthy’ in-flight meals could be hiding such a sodium minefield?” a user said. “This truly makes me wonder what other surprises are hiding in our everyday lives,” one person said, while another said, “It explains why so many people fight on the tarmac and in Indigo.” unusually elevated sodium

Revant, it’s alarming to see how foods that seem healthy may be so high in salt. To make educated decisions, we need more clarity in food labeling,” said another user.