'Banned In The USA' Foods From Around The World Banned In America

Did you know there’s a whole bunch of foods and products that are illegal to take into America? Here’s foods Uncle Sam won’t let in.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Haggis

The national dish of Scotland is banned in America as there’s a 1971 law that states foods must not contain sheep lungs.

Scotland food tour

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Scotland is famous for its distinctive cuisine, and Edinburgh’s best foodie spots are best discovered with a local guide. On this small-group walking tour, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Old and New Towns while sampling Scottish classics like Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, Scotch whisky, and afternoon tea. Savor authentic Haggis and award-winning Lowland Single Malt Whisky, and learn why Edinburgh locals are so passionate about their food. This tour provides a deep dive into the local culinary scene as you wander the charming streets. With a maximum of 10 participants, you’ll enjoy an intimate and personalized experience.

Horse meat

Slaughtering horses for human consumption is illegal in the USA (though technically, consuming horse meat isn’t).

Black pudding

Black pudding, and other ‘blood cakes’ from around the world such as ti-hoeh-koe from Taiwan, are banned in US due to sanitary reasons.

Kinder eggs

These European treats contravene the 1938 Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act which bans items containing a “non-nutritive object in food”.

Unpasteurised ‘raw’ milk

Banned in some, but not all, US states on health grounds.

Casu Marzu

An Italian delicacy, and we use that word lightly, this is a round pecorino cheese infested with maggots, that you eat.

Foie Gras

Not totally banned, but certainly banned in California and a few other states. Foie gras is a fattened gooses liver.

Ackee fruit

The national fruit of Jamaica, which if not fully ripe, can contain high levels of Hypoglycin A and B. Consequently fresh fruit is banned, though some canned versions are now available.

Food tasting Jamaica

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Discover Jamaica’s vibrant culture through its cuisine on a private food-tasting tour. Guided by a local expert, you’ll sample delicious dishes such as ackee and saltfish, curry goat, and the renowned jerk chicken. The tour includes a visit to a fruit stand where you can try fresh, exotic fruits rarely found in hotels. Along the way, you’ll learn the fascinating history and preparation methods of these traditional dishes. This private tour from Montego Bay, Negril, or Grand Palladium offers a unique insight into authentic Jamaican life and culinary traditions. Enjoy the rich flavors and stories of Jamaica with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Shark fins

Banned simply for the cruel method of acquiring them (namely cutting the fins of the animal while alive and throwing it back into the sea) and to preserve shark numbers.