Due to concerns about allergic reactions from passengers, Southwest Airlines announced Monday it will no longer serve peanuts on flights starting August 1.
According to CNBC.com, Southwest has long served peanuts on its low-cost flights, but the rise in awareness regarding customers who suffer from peanut allergies and the possibly life-threatening reactions was no longer worth the risk for the carrier.
The United States Food and Drug Administration revealed that around 150 deaths and 2,000 hospitalizations result from severe allergic reactions to food each year.
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“Peanuts forever will be part of Southwest’s history and DNA,” a Southwest spokesperson said in a statement. “However, to ensure the best onboard experience for everyone, especially for customers with peanut-related allergies, we’ve made the difficult decision to discontinue serving peanuts on all flights beginning August 1.”
Southwest officials said the airline will continue serving complementary pretzels and other snacks, but the company’s main goal is to make every passenger feel safe and welcome when flying with the carrier.
Several other airlines like American and United already stopped serving packaged peanuts on their flights, while Delta Air Lines allows its customers with allergies to board their flight early to clean seats and tray tables to ensure a safe journey.
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