Marmite is the most commonly seized branded food item at UK airports

Marmite is the most commonly seized branded food item at British airports, a study has found.

The controversial spread is the most coveted foodstuff by UK travellers heading abroad or back home.

It made a top ten list of the most seized items at London City Airport.

The most confiscated item at the airport in east London is a snow globe, followed by jams, toiletries, chutneys and olive oils.

Wine and spirits also make the top ten, ahead of Marmite in eighth place overall, making it the top branded food item.

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Ninth place belonged to Nutella chocolate spread, followed by a rather kinky entry at Number 10 – furry handcuffs.

London City Airport said it seizes four jars of Marmite every day – its standard pot size of 250g puts it above the limit for carry-on liquid.

On Monday, in a bid to appease Marmite lovers, travellers caught with the jars were given a smaller 70g replacement for free.

Most of the food items confiscated at London City Airport are donated to the Community Food Enterprises charity.

Melanie Burnley, director of customer experience at London City Airport, said: ‘With 4.5 million passengers travelling through our doors each year, we see all kinds of weird and wonderful restricted items, including Marmite.

‘The Marmite swap is a temporary but popular addition which means that whether you love it or hate it, you’ll still be able to get your Marmite fix when travelling from London City Airport.

‘For any other liquid or gel items above 100ml, it’s best to pack them safely in the hold luggage.’