So a Dunedin-based dental company committed to improving oral health through educational awareness is questioning whether Air New Zealand should be promoting sugar-laden lollies on its flights.
Easy Dental founder Maykon Dias said for many travellers, the airline’s in-flight lolly had become a "nostalgic part" of the flying experience, but behind the charm of the beloved tradition lay a potential threat.
"That lolly might help ease the discomfort of landing, but it’s also a one-way ticket to tooth decay.
"With 275,000 Kiwis already losing one or more teeth to dental conditions last year, this isn’t something we can afford to ignore."
He believed the tradition could be contributing to New Zealand’s worsening oral health crisis.
"Aeroplane cabins are notoriously dry, with humidity levels sometimes dipping as low as 5% — well below the comfort threshold of 40% to 70%.
"This isn’t just about dry skin or chapped lips; it impacts your mouth, too.
"Dry air suppresses saliva production, which is crucial for protecting teeth.
"Saliva is your mouth’s natural defence against tooth decay, helping to wash away bacteria, food particles, and neutralising acids that attack tooth enamel."
He said in that environment, as the sugary treats dissolved in the mouth they fed the billions of bacteria that thrived on sugar, and it created the perfect recipe for an "acidic bomb" targeting tooth enamel.
"It’s like launching an all-out acid assault on your teeth while your body’s defences are still in airplane mode.
"We’re not trying to spoil the fun of flying. We’re just asking for smarter options.
"Why not promote sugar-free gum, which stimulates saliva production and helps clear away harmful acids?"
Air New Zealand chief customer and sales officer Leanne Geraghty did not comment on whether the airline was considering a healthier alternative.
However, she did say getting to pick a lolly or two, at the end of an Air New Zealand flight, was a much-loved ritual for customers.
"It’s a small treat, and one that customers are free to enjoy — or skip entirely.
"We believe in letting everyone decide if they want to add a touch of sweetness to their journey."
