When it comes to what we put on our plates, most of us want to feel safe, confident, and informed.
But what if I told you that many of the foods we know and love here in America aren’t even allowed in other countries because of health risks?
That’s right. This isn’t just about cultural differences; it’s about different standards, different approaches to safety, and ultimately, different beliefs about what should or shouldn’t be in our food.
Here’s a look at eight foods that are loved in the U.S. but banned in Europe—and why these restrictions exist. Together, let’s explore the possibilities of a safer, healthier relationship with our food.
1. Skittles and Other Artificially Colored Foods
We all know Skittles. They’re bright, fun, and packed with flavors that take us back to childhood. But here’s what you might not know: Skittles contain synthetic dyes like Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40, which are derived from petroleum. Studies have connected these dyes to hyperactivity in children, and some research suggests they might even increase cancer risk.
In Europe, they’ve taken a stand on this, limiting or banning these artificial colors in food. Over there, if a product does contain these dyes, it must carry a warning label. But in the U.S., these colors remain as bright as ever, unrestricted and unlabeled.
Froot Loops - Contains Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6. Skittles - Contains Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1. Pop-Tarts - Many flavors contain artificial dyes like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6. Little Debbie Swiss Rolls - Contains Yellow 5, Red 40, and other artificial colors. M&M's - Uses Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Blue 2. Doritos - Popular flavors contain Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1. Cheetos - Known for Yellow 6 and Yellow 5 to give them their neon orange look. Fruit by the Foot - Contains Blue 1, Yellow 5, and Red 40. Mountain Dew - Contains Yellow 5, giving it its iconic neon green color. Jell-O Gelatin and Pudding Mixes - Many flavors use a mix of artificial dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5. Pillsbury Toaster Strudel - Uses Red 40 and Blue 1 in certain varieties. Lucky Charms - The marshmallows are colored with Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1, and Yellow 6.
2. Instant Stuffing & Mashed Potatoes (BHA and BHT)
If you love a quick and easy holiday stuffing, you’ve likely picked up Kraft Stove Top Stuffing. But what many of us don’t realize is that these products often contain preservatives like BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene). They keep foods fresher for longer, but they’re also linked to potential cancer risks and hormonal disruptions.
While Europe and countries like Japan have said “no” to these additives, here in America, BHA and BHT are still welcome guests at the dinner table. It’s one of those situations where science and policy just don’t seem to line up, and in the end, we’re left in the middle, hoping for the best.
3. Twinkies & Little Debbie Swiss Rolls
Twinkies. Swiss Rolls. They’re the sweet treats we’ve grown up with, packed with all the nostalgia and, yes, artificial colors. Both of these snacks contain dyes like Yellow 5 and Red 40, which research has linked to hyperactivity in kids and even possible cancer risks. Europe has responded to these concerns by either banning the dyes or requiring prominent warning labels, while we’ve continued using them here, despite the questions they raise.
4. Pillsbury Biscuits (Trans Fats)
Pillsbury Biscuits, ready-to-bake in that familiar pop-open can, are another American classic. But they also contain trans fats, which are partially hydrogenated oils that can raise “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. That’s why trans fats are banned in many countries that have opted for healthier alternatives.
In the U.S., trans fats have been restricted but are still present in small amounts in certain processed foods. It’s hard to imagine something as simple as a biscuit could carry such potential health concerns, yet here we are.
5. Bread with Potassium Bromate
Potassium bromate is a common ingredient in U.S. bread-making; it helps dough rise higher and makes for a fluffier texture. But this dough conditioner is also classified as a possible carcinogen, linked to kidney and thyroid cancer in animal studies. For countries like the UK and Canada, that’s enough reason to say “no” to potassium bromate. But in the U.S., it’s still used in some breads and baked goods. It’s a hidden ingredient that most of us don’t know about, yet we’re likely eating it every day.
6. High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
High-fructose corn syrup is a staple in American sweets and sodas. While it’s not banned outright in Europe, it is heavily regulated. Studies have connected HFCS with higher rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and liver disease. In Europe, fewer products contain HFCS, as more companies use natural sweeteners instead.
This one is a bit harder to tackle because it’s so deeply rooted in the way we manufacture food here. But for those concerned about health, limiting HFCS is a choice we can start making ourselves, one label at a time.
7. American Pork (Ractopamine)
Ractopamine is a growth hormone commonly used in American pork production to encourage lean muscle growth. But it’s banned in over 160 countries, including all of Europe, China, and Russia. The reason? Ractopamine has been linked to increased heart rate and potential cardiovascular effects in humans. While many countries have rejected its use, the U.S. FDA still allows ractopamine in pork products.
As consumers, this might be one of the toughest choices to navigate. If we want to avoid ractopamine, we need to opt for hormone-free or organic pork products, or support farmers who are making health-conscious choices.
8. Chlorinated Chicken
Yes, chlorine. In the U.S., poultry is often treated with chlorine to reduce bacteria, but in Europe, this practice is banned. Instead, European regulations enforce strict cleanliness throughout the chicken production process, so that by the time it reaches your plate, there’s no need for chlorine.
For many of us, this is one of those moments when we feel a bit powerless as consumers. While the FDA insists that chlorine-washed chicken is safe, critics argue it can mask less-than-ideal hygiene practices during production. It’s a reminder that sometimes safety isn’t just about what we add but about the standards we set along the way.
Wrapping It All Up: What Can We Do?
So here we are, faced with a complex reality: foods we trust, foods we grew up with, are viewed as questionable or even dangerous in other parts of the world. It’s a little unsettling, isn’t it? When we talk about making informed choices, it’s not about creating fear or guilt. It’s about stepping into awareness, about knowing what we’re putting into our bodies and choosing what aligns with our health.
While we might not be able to change food policies overnight, we can choose to be mindful. We can read labels, look for products that avoid artificial dyes, preservatives, and harmful additives. We can opt for organic and hormone-free options where possible. And we can join the larger conversation about what we want our food system to look like.
Change starts with awareness, with asking questions, and with making the best choices we can each day. Together, let’s lean into this journey, as we keep striving toward a healthier, more transparent way of nourishing ourselves and our families.
