Massachusetts Man Goes Viral for His Awkward TSA Check

Massachusetts resident, Joel Libed has become a popular name on TikTok for his viral video after he was stopped by TSA security for his carry-on.

His carry-on wasn't packed with the usual items. It was jam-packed with a variety of flavored cans of SPAM.

Libed's love for SPAM originated from his upbringing in Hawaii where SPAM is a huge cultural root and a popular dish.

The 33-year-old man was traveling as part of the professional Irish dancing show, A Taste of Ireland and their first stop was in Austin, Minnesota, the home of the popular SPAM Museum.

In an interview with People Magazine, Libed excitedly expressed how the Minnesota SPAM Museum was a big part of his itinerary.

"When we got to Austin, I told everyone I wanted to visit the museum," he said. "Unfortunately, we only had about 20 minutes to visit, but the workers there were so kind and welcoming."

With Libed's time cut short at the museum, he didn't quite get the full SPAM experience, but luckily, fate stepped in. A woman working at the SPAM Museum who was also in charge of the costumes for his group gifted Libed with an entire case of SPAM.

With close to 5 million views on TikTok, people can't get enough of this SPAM-loving traveler.

@joellibedny Sorry not sorry i love @SPAM®️Brand @Hormel Foods @SPAM®️ Museum #spam #tsa #fyp ♬ Funny Song - Funny Song Studio & Sounds Reel

Libed can be seen embarrassingly laughing over the incident in a TikTok video as he explains to security the special flavored cans of spam he received, which included a Hawaii special edition, turkey, maple, jalapeño, tocino (Filipino sausage), and more.

Since posting the viral video, Libed has been rewarded with even more SPAM courtesy of the company itself, who reached out expressing their love for Libed's video, sending him even more SPAM to try.

For Libed, this entire incident has become a humorous experience.

"It's been a fun ride and I'm loving the support," he said.

Contributing Author: Marissa Sebastiao