Nov 18, 2023
By: Ayush Mehrotra
Somalia's ban on samosas since 2011 due to their triangular shape being perceived as a symbol of Christianity by the 'Al-Shabaab group,' with severe punishments for breaking the law.
Credit: BCCL
Canada's 2005 ban on Chawanprash, a popular Indian health supplement, citing high levels of lead and mercury. The ban aimed at protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with the product.
Credit: Times of India
Ghee, hailed as a superfood in India, is banned in the United States. The FDA linked ghee consumption to diseases like blood pressure, heart attacks, and obesity, prompting the prohibition.
Credit: Unsplash
France's ban on ketchup, a condiment widely enjoyed globally, was implemented due to concerns about excess consumption among teenagers. The French government took this step to promote healthier eating habits.
Credit: Unsplash
Singapore's 1992 ban on chewing gum due to its commitment to cleanliness. The country restricted the use, distribution, and trade of chewing gums. In 2004, therapeutic dental gums were allowed under international pressure.
Credit: Unsplash
Venice's 2017 ban on kebab shops, a surprising twist for a dish loved in India. The prohibition aimed at preserving the city's decorum and traditions, reflecting the unique challenges faced by global cuisines in different cultural contexts.
Credit: BCCL
Poppy seeds, a spice cherished in India, face bans in Singapore, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE due to their morphine content. Considered 'prohibited goods' in Singapore, they raise questions about cultural attitudes towards exotic spices globally.
Credit: Wikipedia