Foods Banned in Other Countries 2024

North Korea

North Korea is a country in East Asia that is known for its strict government and isolationist policies. Of course, the government of North Korea has banned many foods and products that it considers to be a threat to the country's security or ideology. One of the most well-known banned foods in North Korea is sushi. The government has banned sushi and other Japanese dishes because of the country's historic animosity towards Japan. In addition, sushi is considered to be a luxury food and is only eaten by the wealthy, which goes against the government's notion of perceived equality.

Another banned food in North Korea is dog meat. The consumption of dog meat is considered taboo in many Western countries, but it is a traditional dish in North Korea. However, the government has recently banned the consumption of dog meat because it is considered to be a health hazard. Dog meat has historically been eaten throughout east Asia, as it is considered one of the few meals that help to prevent illness in hot summers, as well as increase fertility.

United States

The United States is a bastion of North America and the west, known for its diverse cultures, liberty, and abundant food supply distribution. Despite this, there shockingly are some foods and products that are banned in the United States. One of the most well-known banned foods in the United States is raw milk. The consumption of raw milk, which has not been pasteurized to kill bacteria, is illegal in many states. This is because raw milk can contain harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella, that can cause serious illness.

Another banned food in the United States is unpasteurized apple juice. Like raw milk, unpasteurized apple juice can contain harmful bacteria that can cause illness. The consumption of unpasteurized apple juice is illegal in the United States, and companies that produce it can face fines and other penalties. Unpasteurized apple juice, milk, or other beverages are also banned in many other parts of North America, which is uncommon in western European countries.

Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world, located in both continents of Europe and Asia, which is known for its cold climate and hearty cuisine. Despite this, there are some foods and products that are banned in Russia. One of the most well-known banned foods in Russia is McDonald's french fries. In 2010, the Russian government banned the import of McDonald's french fries because they did not meet the country's standards for potato products. The ban was later lifted, but McDonald's still sources its fries from other countries.

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are banned in the country as well. The Russian government has banned the production and sale of GMOs because of concerns about their safety and potential health effects. This has led to a thriving market for organic and non-GMO products in Russia, which serves both domestic and international markets. Of course, this has been affected by the Russo-Ukraine conflict, which occurred officially on Feb 24, 2022.