Top 10 banned foods across the world

1. Chicken 

In Europe and Great Britain, selling chicken treated with chlorine has been banned since 1997. Chlorine washing is used to exclude the possibility of salmonella and other bacterial infections. In Europe, this method is considered dangerous because a high chlorine content may be harmful to our health. In 2010, the same prohibition was implemented in Russia.

2. Cereal bars 

Across the whole world, cereal bars, oatmeal, and other products are considered healthy foods containing essential vitamins and minerals. However, in Denmark, these products are banned since, according to the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, they contain an excess of “toxic” substances, hurting children’s livers and kidneys if consumed regularly.

3. Soy sauce

82% of all grown soybeans are genetically modified. The effects of GMOs on the human body haven’t been fully studied, but GMOs are prohibited in some European countries, Russia, the Persian Gulf countries, and other states. What’s more, soy sauce can also contain ethyl carbamate, a dangerous carcinogen.

4. Meat 

The meat of cattle, pigs, and turkeys is often produced with ractopamine. This hormone allows an animal to gain weight faster. Scientists believe that this meat can be harmful to people and lead to cardiovascular diseases. Meat prepared with ractopamine is banned in 160 countries, including European countries, China, and Russia.

5. Potato chips and chips containing olestra, a synthetic fat substitute, are prohibited in Canada and Europe. This supplement prevents the body from absorbing useful substances and vitamins and can lead to stomach issues. Olestra is often used in the production of potato chips marked with the word “light.” It’s also recommended that you pay attention to the composition of cheese, margarine, crackers, ice cream, and other products.

6. Apple

During an inspection conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, it was found out that 80% of apples contain diphenylamine (DPA), which helps fruits stay fresher for longer so they can be exported all around the world. In Europe, DPA is considered to be a harmful substance that may cause cancer, which is why apples have been prohibited here since 2012

7. Gelatin sweets

According to the European Commission, gelatin sweets in small cups are extremely dangerous for children because they are a choking hazard. In addition, these sweets may also contain konjac, a fiber that swells when it comes into contact with moisture and may get stuck in the throat, making it impossible to give the Heimlich maneuver. As a result, this treat is banned in Europe, Australia, and other countries.

8. Bread

Bread containing azodicarbonamide (ADA, E927) is banned in Europe and Australia. ADA is used to make flour white and helps to keep products fresher for longer. However, this supplement may cause allergies and asthma.

9. Instant mashed potatoes

To produce instant mashed potatoes, butyl hydroxyanisole (ВНА, Е320) is often used. The National Institutes of Health conducted several studies and concluded that this preservative is potentially harmful to human health. ВНА can also be found in other products like frozen foods, soups, and mayonnaise. This substance is banned in Japan and some European countries.

10. Margarine 

Consuming trans fats may lead to metabolism issues, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases. The highest percentage of trans fats is found in margarine: taking up around 15% of the product's total weight. Trans fat foods are prohibited in Canada, Denmark, and Switzerland. Additionally, in many countries, laws are restricting the amounts allowed in food.

11. Foie gras