Here’s a guide to 10 foods that Americans love but are banned or restricted in other countries, including the surprising reasons why these classic snacks and drinks don’t meet international standards:
1. Mountain Dew
Reason for Ban: Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)
Banned in: European Union, Japan
Why: BVO is a flame retardant chemical used to help dissolve the citrus flavoring in Mountain Dew. While it’s approved for use in the U.S., it’s banned in other countries due to concerns about its potential to accumulate in the body and cause neurological or reproductive issues.
2. Cheetos
Reason for Ban: Artificial Food Colorings
Banned in: Norway, the UK, and other parts of the EU
ADVERTISEMENT
