Peanuts No More A Snack On Southwest Airlines

DALLAS, TX — Southwest Airlines' in-flight food service just got a lot more simpler and limited.

The Dallas-based airline said in a statement that beginning Aug. 1, it will no longer serve peanuts on its flights. The airline hopes its free pretzels that remain as a snack option will replace the void left by the peanuts in passenger's stomach.

"Peanuts forever will be part of Southwest’s history and DNA," Southwest said in a statement. "However, to ensure the best on-board 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."

Peanuts are one of eight foods listed by the FDA as a major food allergen. According to the agency, these foods account for 90 percent of food allergic reactions.

The airline also said that its longer flights have a "wonderful portfolio of free snacks."

Southwest said it hopes the pretzels and the snacks served on longer flights "will please customers who might be nostalgic or sad to see peanuts go."

"Our ultimate goal is to create an environment where all customers—including those with peanut-related allergies—feel safe and welcome on every Southwest flight," the statement continued.

While the airline said it would miss the peanuts, it's the hospitality and employees that sets Southwest apart.

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