The world is diverse, with numerous communities coexisting with their own beliefs and practices. It's common for certain items, individuals, buildings, and foods to have particular associations. For instance, cows are considered holy by the Hindu community in India, and therefore cow meat is banned for consumption in the majority of the states in the country.
Similarly, certain other foods that are well-accepted in India might not be suitable for other cultural settings. Yes, that is true. Either it could hurt religious sentiments or be a reason for ethicality, here are some foods that are banned across countries but can be found in India.
1. Chewing Gum
So, what has the humble chewing gum done to be banned somewhere? The sale, distribution, and use of chewing gum are banned in Singapore as part of the country's efforts to maintain cleanliness. This ban was implemented in 1992 and prohibited the sale, import, and manufacture of all types of chewing gum, except for therapeutic or dental gum with approval from the Health Sciences Authority. In 2004, the ban was slightly relaxed to allow the sale of chewing gum for therapeutic purposes and is still in effect today. Despite being a popular sweet mouth freshener, chewing gum is not readily available in local shops and stores in Singapore due to this ban.
2. Tomato Ketchup
As bizarre as it may sound, in France, it is considered offensive to order ketchup with fries, and this ban has been in effect since 2011. The government's reasoning for this ban was that excessive consumption of ketchup was harmful to teenagers' health. However, some have speculated that the ban was also an attempt to preserve French food culture and traditions, as ketchup is seen as an American symbol.
3. Samosa
Crispy, deep-fried, conical puff pastries stuffed with spicy mashed potato fillings are a common Indian snack consumed as an evening teatime accompaniment. But did you know that the Somalians consider it displeasing because of its triangular shape? It is believed that this shape signified "Al Shabaab," an Islamist extremist group based in East Africa. It has been legally banned, and non-compliance can lead to severe punishment.
4. Ghee
While Indians cannot stop singing the praises of ghee and its health benefits because it is naturally obtained, unlike refined oil, the USA doesn’t approve of the idea. In the United States, one cannot consume ghee as it has been banned from the country on medical grounds. It is believed that consuming ghee causes obesity and increases the chances of high blood pressure and heart attacks.
5. Raw Milk
Yes, you read that right. Raw milk is nowhere to be seen in the US or Canada. Why so? That’s because they believe that unpasteurized milk or products made with unpasteurized milk may carry germs that can cause diseases like salmonella infection. While Indians love their raw milk for a variety of purposes, it is a big no in the US and Canada.