In the land of the free and the home of the brave, you’d expect to be able to consume whatever food your heart desires. However, at least 15 foods are strictly prohibited in America.
These foods, ranging from certain kinds of cheese to exotic fruits, are banned due to serious health concerns, environmental considerations, or animal cruelty issues. This article aims to unveil these forbidden foods and the reasons behind their prohibition.
Kinder Surprise Eggs
These chocolate eggs, famous in many parts of the world, contain a small toy. They are banned in the US due to a 1930s law that prohibits the insertion of non-edible items in confectionery products.
Fugu (Pufferfish)
Renowned in Japan, Fugu is lethal if not adequately prepared, as it contains a deadly poison called tetrodotoxin. Its importation and preparation are banned in most states due to the high risk.
Mirabelle Plums
While grown and enjoyed in France, these plums are forbidden in the US due to certain pesticide regulations.
Casu Marzu Cheese
This Italian cheese, which contains live insect larvae, is banned due to health considerations.
Haggis
Traditional Scottish haggis contains sheep’s lung, which is not approved for consumption in the US.
Sassafras Oil
Once a key ingredient in root beer, sassafras oil was banned by the FDA because it contains safrole, a potential carcinogen.
Ackee Fruit
Native to West Africa, this fruit is banned due to its high levels of hypoglycin A, which can cause severe health issues if not correctly ripened and prepared.
Horse Meat
Although not entirely illegal, slaughtering horses for meat is heavily regulated and taboo, effectively banning it.
Absinthe
While not entirely banned, Absinthe must adhere to strict regulations, including a requirement that it contains no thujone, a potentially harmful chemical.
Shark Fins
Consumption and trade of shark fins are banned in several states due to ethical and conservation concerns.
Ortolan
This tiny songbird is a French delicacy forbidden in the US due to animal cruelty concerns.
Bushmeat
Meats such as elephant, bat, and monkey are banned due to potential disease transmission.
Sea Turtles
Consumption of sea turtles and their eggs is banned due to endangered species protections.
Beluga Caviar
Importation of Beluga caviar from the Caspian Sea has been banned because of the Beluga sturgeon’s threatened status.
Foie Gras
Foie gras is banned in several states due to ethical concerns about force-feeding ducks or geese to enlarge their livers.
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