I was surprised to discover that some foods commonly consumed in the United States are prohibited in other countries. I initially expected these banned foods to be unfamiliar to me, but it turns out they are everyday items that most people in the U.S. are familiar with and have likely eaten before. However, these same foods cannot be legally sold in stores in other countries.
Gatorade is
As stated on the Market Realist website, specific flavors of the well-known sports beverage include Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 dyes, which are prohibited for children in Norway and Austria. In other European Union countries, these particular Gatorade options are required to have a warning label.
The brand name of a popular type of macaron
According to Market Realist, the reason why this guilty pleasure that Americans love is prohibited in the UK and other British Commonwealth countries is due to the presence of yellow dyes.
Mashed potatoes that are made quickly
Although not as satisfying as real mashed potatoes, these alternatives can still be a viable option. However, they are not available in the UK and Japan due to the presence of a preservative called BHA, as reported by the Eat This website.
Kellogg's is a well-known company known for producing a variety
Frosted Flakes are highly regarded except in the UK, Europe, and Japan, where they are prohibited. This prohibition is based on information provided by Market Realist. The reason behind this ban is the presence of BHT, a preservative commonly found in cosmetics and rubber items, which is also used in Frosted Flakes and several other cereals.
The brand known
An apparently harmless indulgent treat is generally acceptable, except for Swiss Cake Rolls. In some European Union countries, they are either prohibited or accompanied by strong warnings. The main concern, as stated by Market Realist, is that these snacks contain food dyes that are considered unsafe for children, such as Yellow 5 and Red 40. Another reason for the restrictions or outright ban is the presence of palm oil in the product.
Skittles are
Austria, Sweden, and Norway have prohibited the sale and consumption of Skittles due to the presence of Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 dyes, as mentioned earlier. In other countries within the European Union, Skittles are allowed but are required to display a warning label
Pork produced in the United States
According to Eat This, in the United States, when it comes to cuts of meat from pigs, growth hormones like ractopamine are commonly used in farming practices. Interestingly, the US is one of the few countries globally that still permits the use of these hormones.
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Image credit: Nick DeRiso
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