I moved from the US to South Africa. Here are 11 big differences between grocery shopping in both countries.

Megan GieskeSep 17, 2022, 01:03 IST

I moved from the US to South Africa in 2020 and found many differences between the countries' grocery stores.Megan Gieske

When I moved from the US to South Africa, I didn't expect the grocery stores to be so different.
In South Africa, I weigh my own produce before I get to the register and buy unrefrigerated eggs.

When I moved from the US to South Africa, I didn't expect there to be so many differences between the countries' grocery stores.

I'd never heard of some of South Africa's most popular foods, like Mrs. Balls Chutney, before I moved.Megan Gieske

In my experience, South African grocery stores don't carry ingredients for empanadas, tostones, or arepas.Megan Gieske

The signs in South African grocery stores are in Afrikaans and English.Megan Gieske

South African supermarkets don't keep their eggs in the refrigerator.Megan Gieske

I call citrus fruits tangerines, but my partner calls them naartjies.Megan Gieske

I have to weigh my produce before checking out in South Africa.Megan Gieske

I usually get my groceries delivered in South Africa instead of going to the store myself.Megan Gieske

Many people shop for spices and special ingredients at open-air markets.Megan Gieske

South African grocery stores sell ostrich meat and venison.Megan Gieske

A lot of the brand names are inspired by the country's wildlife.Megan Gieske

I can buy wine in South African grocery stores, but not hard liquor or beer.Megan Gieske

Biltong, or dried meat, is one of the most beloved foods in South Africa.Megan Gieske