World Cup visitors heading home with a newfound appreciation for American food are running into an unexpected obstacle at airport security: ranch dressing. The Transportation Security Administration has issued a lighthearted but pointed reminder after encountering travelers attempting to carry multiple bottles of the popular condiment through checkpoints during the World Cup.
In a June 16 Instagram post, the agency joked that carry-on bags were not designed for “checks notes 4 bottles of ranch & a taser,” while urging fans to remember that ranch dressing is treated like any other liquid. According to USA Today, under TSA rules, containers larger than 3.4 ounces must be packed in checked luggage, regardless of how full they are. Officials said visitors who discovered a love for ranch while attending the World Cup should simply place larger bottles in their checked bags before flying home.
The phenomenon highlights just how much ranch dressing has become part of the American experience for international tourists. Though commonplace in the United States, the flavor remains relatively uncommon in many parts of the world.
Created in the 1950s by Steve Henson, who later opened California’s Hidden Valley Ranch, the creamy blend of buttermilk, herbs, garlic, and onion eventually grew into a multibillion-dollar business. By the 1990s, ranch had overtaken Italian dressing as America’s top-selling salad dressing.
TSA leaned into the moment with more playful messaging. “If you're visiting for a very large sporting event & you happen to discover RANCH while you're here... pls pack it in your CHECKED BAG on the way home. Thank you,” the agency wrote.
In another post, officials declared, “Who knew dip-lomacy could be achieved through addressing the obvious: ranch is the king of condiments.”
The agency also warned travelers against trying to finish oversized bottles before boarding, adding, “ok please avoid chugging your ranch outside security the airlines will check it for you.”
The fascination surrounding ranch extends beyond salads. Visitors are often surprised to find Americans pairing the sauce with pizza, chicken wings, fries, onion rings, quesadillas, chips, and vegetables.
