TSA Discovers Illegal Drugs Hidden in Seafood Boil Seasoning at New Orleans Airport

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) made a spicy discovery when they found illegal drugs hidden inside a jar of Zatarain’s Ultimate Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil. The concealed item in question was not the typical seasoning blend Louisianians are accustomed to.

Upon closer inspection, the photos shared by the TSA revealed a bag filled with crystal meth, clumsily concealed with blue painter's tape, inside the jar of seafood boil seasoning. The audacious move has sparked significant attention and an equal amount of amusement on social media.

The TSA's Instagram account posted about the incident with a caption that read, "This is no way to speed through security… There was definitely something fishy about this container." The agency humorously added that it's never a wise idea to hide a pound of meth, especially not in a cooking powder. The post ended with a reminder that while TSA officers don’t actively search for illegal drugs, if they are found during screening, the matter will be referred to law enforcement. The passenger involved in this incident was arrested and now faces federal charges.

The Instagram post elicited several reactions from the public. One user highlighted the hashtag #SeasoningPowder with evident amusement. Another commented, "Not in the Zatarains!" hinting at the surprise that someone would use such a popular Louisiana brand for illicit purposes.

Others expressed disbelief at the audacity and lack of foresight, with comments like "Blue painters tape.. the height of security. We are dealing with professionals here" and "lol they put the bag in a container of powder as if the X-ray wouldn’t show a bag hidden inside. Hella dumb."

Let this be a reminder that while some might go to extreme lengths to smuggle prohibited items, airport security remains vigilant, ensuring the safety and security of all passengers—and seafood boils.