🍔❌ Why you won’t find a Big Mac in India, lemonade in Japan, or triangular samsa in Somalia — the reasons might surprise you! From religious beliefs to health concerns, some everyday foods are banned or avoided around the world 🌍 Curious which snack made it onto Denmark’s do-not-eat list? Find out in the full story — details in this article👇✨
Food traditions around the world are closely tied to the culture and beliefs of each country. While dishes like meat pies, vegetables, and fried snacks are found everywhere, some foods that seem normal to us are not eaten at all in other countries. Let’s take a look at what dishes are rejected in certain places and why.
Samsa
These popular meat or vegetable pies, often found in Asian and African countries, are usually made with simple or puff pastry. They come in round, triangular, or square shapes, and are baked in a tandoor oven and eaten hot. However, in Somalia, you won’t see triangular samsa. That’s because many people there are Muslim and believe the triangle shape reminds them of the Christian Holy Trinity, which doesn’t match their religion.
Big Mac
In India, McDonald’s doesn’t serve the famous Big Mac. That’s because the classic version has a beef patty, and cows are considered sacred in India and neighboring Nepal. In Hinduism, cows are a symbol of kindness and purity. Killing a cow is not only illegal in many parts of the country but also seen as very disrespectful. That’s why the Big Mac is off the menu there.
Blackberries and Raspberries
In Jewish tradition, there are strict food rules that say what can and can’t be eaten, especially when it comes to meat. But surprisingly, some fruits are also not allowed. Raspberries and blackberries are often avoided because they may have tiny insects hiding inside, and eating insects goes against kosher dietary laws.
Garlic
Garlic is a big part of many global cuisines, but it’s not welcome in all of them. In Buddhist culture—especially in China—garlic is believed to distract the mind and stir up strong emotions. Since self-control and inner peace are important in Buddhism, garlic is often avoided.
Salmon
In countries like Canada and New Zealand, many people won’t eat farm-raised salmon. That’s because these fish are often given artificial food and chemicals to help them grow faster, which some believe could cause health problems like cancer. Locals prefer wild-caught fish instead.
Lemonade
You won’t find citrus-flavored sodas in some European countries or in Japan. That’s because those places have strict rules to protect people from consuming artificial flavors and colors, which are often used in these types of drinks.
Diet Muesli Bars
Protein and muesli bars for fitness are popular with people who want to lose weight, but not in Denmark. Health experts there found that these snacks may be harmful, as some ingredients can affect the liver and kidneys. Because of this, such bars are not sold in the country.
Even foods that seem normal to some of us can be completely unacceptable to others due to religion, health concerns, or tradition. It’s a good reminder that food is not just about taste—it’s about values, beliefs, and how we see the world.
