Between super-sized meals, extra large soft drinks and a food culture that centers on fast food, it’s no wonder America has a few questionable ingredients that are banned in other countries.
More than two-thirds (68.8 per cent) of American adults are considered to be overweight or obese, while more than one-third (35.7 per cent) of adults are considered to be obese. More than 1 in 20 (6.3 per cent) have extreme obesity.
But beyond the over-consumption, some of the ingredients found in U.S. food is actually considered to be toxic – so much so that they’ve been banned in other countries.
Here are the foods considered ‘too dangerous’ to be sold around the world.
Artificial food colouring
Where we find it: In pretty much everything: candy, cereal, drinks, cake mix, macaroni and cheese, and pet food. It’s even listed as the first ingredient in Kellogg’s Nutrigrain Bars.
What’s wrong with it: They are made of chemicals that are linked to brain tumors in mice, bladder cancer, allergic reactions, cancer of adrenal glands and kidneys, hyperactivity in children, nerve cell deterioration, and thyroid tumors, Business Insider reports. Not to mention food colouring is made from chemicals in petroleum, which, if you didn’t know, makes gasoline and tar.
Where it’s banned: Norway, Finland, France, Austria, and the U.K.
BVO (Brominated Vegetable Oil)
Where we find it: It enables the food colouring to stick to the water, so it’s found in Mountain Dew and other ‘nuclear’ looking, citrus drinks.
What’s wrong with it: It’s made up of some of the same chemicals that prevent carpets from catching on fire. If that’s not enough to put you off, the chemical is actually a flame retardant, nervous system depressant, and endocrine disrupter. It also causes reproductive and behavioral problems.
Where it’s banned: Japan, Europe, and 100 other countries.
Ractopamine-infused meat
Where we find it: In meat that has a reduced-fat label. It’s common in meat from pigs, turkey, and cattle.
What’s wrong with it: It’s harmful to the cardio vascular system and causes hyperactivity. In addition, chromosomal issues and behavioral changes have been associated with ractopamine-infused meat, according to Business Insider.
Where it’s banned: A whooping 160 countries, including Russia, China, Taiwan, and Europe!
Olean
Where we find it: It’s a chemical in fat-free snacks, like potato chips.
What’s wrong with it: Humans can’t process the substance properly – it’s better to try baked chips instead.
Where it’s banned: U.K. & Canada
Farm-Raised Salmon
Where we find it: Usually in salmon that is labeled as ‘Atlantic Salmon’
What’s wrong with it: Harsh toxins and antibiotics make up the fishes’ diet, and the same chemicals may also cause eyesight damage and cancer in humans.
Where it’s banned: Australia & New Zealand
