Save your anger over the Air Transat news and pack one of these meals the next time you fly

Air Transat has announced it will no longer be offering special meals on transatlantic flights to accommodate various religious and dietary restrictions, with the exception of kosher and vegetarian. Such options – including diabetic, Muslim, Asian vegetarian and gluten-free – are still available if you upgrade to club class.

No surprise that many Canadians are voicing their displeasure (complaining about airlines is, after all, our second national pastime).

The decision to keep kosher meals but kibosh halal and Hindu dishes does leave a bad taste – but to everyone else I say: Really? You're really that upset about missing out on airplane food?

I understand that settling into your seat and being served a hot meal is part of the flying experience. But when was the last time you finished that hot meal and thought, "Boy, I'm going to ask the chef for that recipe?" (I'm talking economy class here; business and first class don't count.) I've had some decent meals, but that's as good as it gets. And they probably equal the inedible ones.

The quality of airport offerings has improved drastically over the years; you'll find outposts from celebrity chefs at many major hubs. I would much rather take one of those packaged meals on board. Or, pack my own (already a standard practice for a friend with celiac disease). That's often a bit tricky for the flight home, but if you've managed to survive your vacation, I think you can find something to sustain you.

Trust me: These options are much more delicious than what passes for pizza at 30,000 feet in the air (plus, they can all be made gluten-free).