A man packed for his trip and wanted to stay on top of his protein goals. So, he put a few servings of protein powder in a clear bag. He quickly realized how that could cause a misunderstanding when TSA stopped him.
In a video with over 8.4 million views, TikToker Rank (@rank43__) films a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent pointing a device at a bag full of white powder. The agent looks concerned and stands behind a glass barrier.
On-screen text reads, “Reminder not to bring protein powder through TSA.”
In an email to BroBible, the TikToker says the additional screening lasted around 30 minutes. He wrote, “They also patted me down during the process before clearing me to go through security with the protein powder.”
Viewers Question His Protein Powder Packing
Commenters instantly question why he would pack the powder in a plastic bag, which could raise a red flag at security as it could be an illicit substance.
“I see the issue! You should have wrapped it in several layers of duct tape as well! To prevent any damage to the packaging,” a viewer joked.
“Yes officer it’s clearly protein on god no cap bro,” a second wrote.
In a follow-up video, the TikToker explains that he couldn’t tote his entire 58-serving tub of protein powder on the flight.
“Look at the BBL on this protein and tell me it’s going to fit in my bag,” he says, showing a picture of the giant jar.
Other viewers say they also brought suspicious supplements through TSA without thinking.
“I brought magnesium crystals. i wrote it on the bag but i understood why they had to test it,” one shared.
“I accidentally left a big bottle of CHICKEN BOUILLON in my bag. the way I gasped when they pulled it out. They tested it and I could take it, but I was EMBARRASSED,” another said.
In an email to BroBible, a TSA spokesperson reminded travelers that “the final decision rests with the Transportation Security Officer (TSO).” It wrote, “Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns.”
How Should You Bring Protein Powder Through TSA?
While you might get stopped, the TSA’s website notes that passengers can bring protein powder—preferably in its original container—through security.
Powders in carry-on baggage will be placed in a separate bin for additional screening, which may take extra time. For this reason, TSA recommends packing powders in checked baggage to avoid additional wait times while you try to make your flight.
On the r/volumeeating subreddit, other travelers shared how they travel with their protein powder.
“I carry my protein powder in ziplocs and put it in my check in luggage. Never had any problems. Have traveled within US and internationally too with protein powder,” one wrote.
Another said, “I’ve put 3 months supply in 7 zip locks in my carry on and never take it out. Done it times no problem in us. In berlin I had no problem but they did examine it as i was carrying it on.. Around the world in my checked bag never a problem.”