Common European Items Prohibited in the USA

Even in a country like America, which is very liberal and free, there are many things that you can buy in Europe but that are simply prohibited in the USA. Some of them are already known to many people, but there are many things that Europeans can enjoy that the USA does not.

Kinder Surprise Eggs


In Europe, Kinder Surprise eggs are very common and available, and kids love them. Let’s be honest, adults love them too! These chocolate eggs come with a surprise tiny toy inside. But in the USA, they are prohibited by the law passed in 1930 and still hanging around. Because toys can present a choking hazard, this rule prohibits the inclusion of toys in chocolates.

Haggis


While haggis is undoubtedly an acquired taste, the Scots take it very seriously, particularly at Robert Burns’ banquets. The delicious dish is composed with oats and spices combined with the organs of sheep. Regretfully, the FDA has ruled that putting sheep lungs in food is prohibited, so it is not available for purchase in the United States.

Absinthe


The Green Fairy, or absinthe, is a popular drink in many European pubs due to rumored hallucinogenic properties. Because of the ingredient thujone, American lawmakers were concerned about the substance for a long time and imposed severe limitations. It is available in the United States, but it has to adhere to tight regulations that aren’t present in Europe.

Strong Spirits


Speaking of spirits, you may have observed that some beers and spirits from Europe seem a little stronger than others. That’s because they are frequently above the limits set by US regulations for alcohol concentration, which has an impact on both local consumers and the kinds of imported alcohol that may be marketed in this country. After all, Europeans are renowned for being very heavy drinkers.

Raw Milk


A growing movement in the US is pushing for the use of raw milk, and in many European nations, it is entirely acceptable to purchase a bottle from a roadside vending machine. Currently, due to concerns about the germs in raw milk, it’s prohibited in many US states. We have no idea why you would want to consume raw milk.

Amped-up Energy Drinks


Compared to energy drinks in the US, some energy drinks in Europe contain more taurine and other energizers. Concerns about the health implications of consuming so much energy have led to a few more limitations on how powerful those drinks can be. In other words, the FDA wants to be cautious when it comes to stimulants.

Bare It All


Expect to see more skin if you’re visiting a beach in Europe. While there are some regions in France and Germany where it is acceptable to be nude, in the United States it is illegal to undress in public. These days, public decency rules usually err on the side of caution.

Baby Walkers


While many parents in Europe use baby walkers, safety concerns in the United States have led many to demand for their outlawing. Research indicates that their effects may outweigh their benefits, thereby raising the likelihood of mishaps and injury. Future babies might need to find alternative means to take their first steps, even while they are permitted for the time being.

Smoke Flavors


If you adore that smokey flavour, certain smoke flavourings are used in Europe that are prohibited in the US due to health concerns. American food inspectors worry that artificial smoke flavours may contain certain substances that could be harmful. Chefs and foodies in Europe get to enjoy it all in the interim.

Windowless Bedrooms


In Europe, beds without windows are common, particularly in older, denser towns. However, due to somewhat differing building rules, windows are required in bedrooms in the United States, mostly as a means of providing an escape path in case of emergency. Safety rules are not as important to Europeans as historical preservation and space efficiency.