What To Know
- The reasons behind MCO’s gum ban are multifaceted and stem from a combination of factors.
- In a crowded airport environment, the risk of accidental ingestion is heightened.
- Orlando Airport’s gum ban is a result of a careful consideration of maintenance, safety, hygiene, environmental, and cultural factors.
Orlando International Airport (MCO), a bustling hub for travelers, has an intriguing quirk: it doesn’t sell gum. This absence has sparked countless questions among travelers, leaving them wondering, “Why doesn’t Orlando airport sell gum?”
The Sticky Saga: Uncovering the Reasons
The reasons behind MCO’s gum ban are multifaceted and stem from a combination of factors:
1. Maintenance Woes: Gum’s Sticky Legacy
Gum, with its adhesive properties, poses a significant maintenance challenge for airports. Chewed gum can find its way into crevices, carpets, and even machinery, leading to costly cleanup and potential damage.
2. Safety Concerns: Gum as a Choking Hazard
Gum, especially when chewed, can become a choking hazard, particularly for young children. In a crowded airport environment, the risk of accidental ingestion is heightened.
3. Hygiene and Sanitation: Gum’s Unwanted Footprint
Chewed gum can carry bacteria and contribute to the spread of germs. In a public space like an airport, maintaining hygiene is paramount.
4. Environmental Impact: Gum’s Lasting Footprint
Gum is made primarily of synthetic materials that are not biodegradable. When discarded improperly, it can end up in landfills or the environment, contributing to pollution.
5. Cultural Differences: Gum’s Varying Etiquette
Gum consumption norms vary across cultures. In some countries, chewing gum in public is considered rude or inappropriate. To avoid potential cultural misunderstandings, MCO has opted for a blanket ban.
The Gum-Free Zone: Alternatives and Implications
While gum is absent from MCO’s offerings, travelers can find other ways to freshen their breath or satisfy their cravings:
1. Breath Mints: A Refreshing Alternative
Breath mints provide a quick and convenient way to freshen breath without the sticky residue. MCO offers a variety of breath mint options.
2. Sugar-Free Candy: A Sweet Escape
Sugar-free candy can satisfy cravings without the added sugar or the potential for gum-related issues. MCO has a selection of sugar-free candies available.
3. Bottled Water: Hydration First
Staying hydrated is essential for travelers. MCO provides ample access to bottled water, which can also help freshen breath.
The Future of Gum at Orlando Airport
Whether MCO will ever reverse its gum ban is uncertain. The airport’s focus remains on maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient environment for all travelers.
The Takeaway: Gum’s Absence, a Multifaceted Decision
Orlando Airport’s gum ban is a result of a careful consideration of maintenance, safety, hygiene, environmental, and cultural factors. While it may disappoint some travelers, it serves to enhance the overall experience for all.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Why doesn’t Orlando airport sell gum?
A: MCO has banned gum due to maintenance challenges, safety concerns, hygiene considerations, environmental impact, and cultural differences.
Q: Can I bring gum into Orlando airport?
A: Yes, you can bring gum into MCO, but it is not sold within the airport.
Q: Are there any alternatives to gum available at Orlando airport?
A: Yes, travelers can find breath mints, sugar-free candy, and bottled water as alternatives.
Q: Is it illegal to chew gum at Orlando airport?
A: No, it is not illegal to chew gum at MCO, but it is highly discouraged.
Q: What are the consequences of chewing gum at Orlando airport?
A: There are no specific consequences, but airport staff may ask you to dispose of the gum.
