TSA allows protein powder, makeup powder and other powders in carry-on and checked bags. In a carry-on, a container over 12 ounces (350 ml) goes in its own bin at screening and may be opened, so TSA suggests packing big tubs in a checked bag.
By its everyday name, such as protein or energy powders or powder makeup.
TSA’s answer
Type an item, or pick one: protein or energy powders, powder makeup, baby powder, cremated remains.
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The 12 ounce rule
TSA puts powder-like substances greater than 12 oz. (350 mL) in a separate bin for the X-ray. They may need more screening, and the container may have to be opened. It isn’t a ban. TSA encourages you to put non-essential powders that size in your checked bag.
Each powder on TSA’s list
| Item | Carry-on | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Protein or energy powders | Yes | Yes |
| Supplements | Yes | Yes |
| Vitamins | Yes | Yes |
| Powder makeup | Yes | Yes |
| Baby powder | Yes | Yes |
| Powder or pellet detergent | Yes | Yes |
| Dry spices | Yes | Yes |
| Salt | Yes | Yes |
| Coffee beans and ground coffee | Yes | Yes |
| Sand | Yes | Yes |
| Cremated remains | Yes, with conditions | Yes |
| Gun powder | No | No |
Creatine and pre-workout
TSA’s list has no entry by those names. Its closest are protein or energy powders and supplements, both allowed in either bag, and the 12 ounce rule applies to any powder-like substance. A smaller tub or single servings keep you under it.
Cremated remains
TSA asks for a container its X-ray can see through, such as wood or plastic: if the image is opaque, the container won’t be allowed, and officers won’t open it, even if you ask. Some airlines don’t take cremated remains in checked bags, so ask yours.
Flying from the UK
UK security (gov.uk, October 2026) says food and powders in hand luggage can block the X-ray image, so your bag may be checked again by hand. Packing them in the hold avoids the delay.