8 ‘Harmless’ Foods Banned Worldwide

Believe it or not, some foods we think are totally fine are actually banned in other parts of the world. It’s like there’s a secret list of “no-no” foods that changes depending on where you are!

I’ve dug up 8 surprising foods that are off-limits in some countries. These aren’t weird, exotic things – I’m talking about stuff you might have in your kitchen right now.

Kinder Surprise Eggs

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The government has banned chocolate eggs with small toys inside in the USA since 1938 because it thinks kids might choke on them. However, these chocolate eggs are super popular in Europe and other parts of the world. American kids miss out on the fun of cracking open these treats.

Farm-Raised Salmon

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Some countries, like Australia and New Zealand, don’t allow this fish. They worry it might have chemicals that are bad for people. Farm-raised salmon can also harm wild salmon if it escapes. These countries only allow wild-caught salmon. This ban helps protect their local fish and people’s health.

Artificial Food Dyes

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Many artificial colors are banned in Europe. These are the bright colors in some candies, cereals, and drinks. Some studies say these dyes might cause health problems. In the US, foods can still use these colors. However, in Europe, many companies use natural colors instead.

Brominated Vegetable Oil

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This ingredient is found in some citrus-flavored sodas. It’s banned in Japan and the European Union. They worry it might be harmful for people’s health. Some US soda companies have stopped using it after people complained. It’s used to keep the flavoring mixed in the drink.

Unpasteurized Milk

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Many countries ban raw milk that hasn’t been heated to kill germs. Places like Canada and Australia don’t allow its sale. They worry people might get sick from the bacteria in raw milk. But some people say it’s healthier and tastes better. The debate about raw milk is still going on in many places.

Genetically Modified Foods

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Many countries don’t allow GMO foods or require companies to label them. These are foods in which scientists have changed the plant’s DNA. Some people worry these foods might not be safe. In the US, GMO foods are common. But in places like Europe, it’s much harder to find them.

Instant Noodles

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Some kinds of instant noodles are banned in other countries. Taiwan banned certain noodles from Korea because they had a chemical that might not be safe. Instant noodles are quick and tasty, but some have ingredients that worry health experts. Different countries have different rules about what can go in these noodles.

Chewing Gum

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Believe it or not, chewing gum is banned in Singapore! You can’t buy or sell it there. The government doesn’t want gum stuck on sidewalks or under tables. They say it makes the city dirty and is hard to clean up. You can only get gum with a doctor’s note. This unusual ban has been in place since 1992.

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Mary Apurong

Mary Apurong is an experienced writer and editor who enjoys researching topics related to lifestyle and creating content on gardening, food, travel, crafts, and DIY. She spends her free time doing digital art and watching documentaries. Check out some of her works on Mastermind Quotes.