Ban on powders in hand luggage could be introduced by UK government

The proposal follows the liquid, gel and aerosol restrictions that are already in place

Prepare for further restrictions on hand luggage requirements (istock)

The UK government is reportedly considering a ban on powders in hand luggage.

The proposal would follow similar moves introduced by the US and Australia, who imposed the restrictions as part of a security crackdown.

Items such as cosmetics, protein powders, coffee and talcum powders would all be restricted if the government goes forward with the proposition, according to The Times.

Travellers would be required to present all powders in their hand luggage separately for screening at security, in addition to presenting liquids, gels and aerosols.

Australian rules state that powders must not exceed 350ml (volume) or 350g (weight). The quantity is calculated on the total container volume, so passengers cannot tip powders out to fall under the 350ml threshold.

Australia also made a distinction between organic and inorganic powders, with these categories being subject to different regulations. Inorganic powders, which include talcum powders, foot powders, powdered detergent, some cleaning products and sand, are subject to volume restrictions, while organic powders, such as powdered baby formula, most cosmetics, coffee and protein powders are not subject to volume restrictions, but must still be presented at airport security.

Air passengers would likely face further delays when passing through security in order for officials to comply with new legislation.

The new security measures are reportedly being considered following a thwarted bomb plot on an Etihad flight from Sydney in July last year.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transport told The Independent: “The safety and security of the public is our top priority, and the UK has some of the most robust aviation security measures in the world.

“It is for each country to determine its own security measures based on its own assessments. We work closely with all our international partners to keep aviation security under constant review, but for obvious reasons we do not comment on specifics.”