India is home to a vast range of products, from food and beverages to cosmetics and medicines, that are widely consumed by the masses. However, several of these products have been banned or heavily restricted in other countries due to health risks, safety concerns, and environmental impact. While regulations in Western nations such as the United States, Canada, and the European Union (EU) enforce strict guidelines, India continues to allow the sale of some products despite global bans.
Jelly Sweets (Konjac Jelly) – Banned in the EU, UK, Australia
Jelly sweets containing konjac pose a choking hazard because they do not dissolve easily in the mouth. Several choking deaths, especially in children, have been reported, due to which, despite being readily available in India, several western countries have banned them.
Lifebuoy Soap – Banned in the US
Lifebuoy contains harsh chemicals and does not meet FDA safety standards for skincare. It is classified as a “medicated soap,” but its formulation is considered too harsh for human skin under US regulations.
Red Bull – Previously Banned in France, Denmark, Norway
The high taurine and caffeine content was a concern. Some studies suggested a potential link to cardiovascular issues. However, the bans were later lifted after more research and changes to labeling requirements.
Disprin – Banned or Restricted in Several European Countries
Disprin has been banned as it reportedly violates certain FDA Drug Regulations. It contains aspirin, which has been linked to Reye’s syndrome in children. Overuse can also cause gastric bleeding and kidney damage.
Unpasteurized (Raw) Milk – Banned in the US, Canada, Scotland
Raw milk carries a risk of bacterial infections, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. Some US states allow local sales, but federal law prohibits interstate distribution.
Nimulid (Nimesulide) – Banned in the US, UK, Canada, Australia
Nimulid is a pain-killer linked to severe liver toxicity and liver failure. Despite being available in India, it is banned in many countries due to its dangerous side effects.
Kinder Joy Chocolate – Banned in the US (Known as Kinder Surprise, not Kinder Joy)
The US bans food products that contain non-edible objects inside them due to choking risks. Kinder Joy, or Kinder Surprise (as it is known as in the US) contains a small toy inside a chocolate shell, making it illegal.
Vicks Vaporub – Restricted in Some European Countries
Some countries warn against its use in young children, as the menthol and camphor content can cause respiratory distress, especially in infants. The Vicks Inhaler is prohibited in Japan due to its strict laws against narcotics and stimulants.
Chyawanprash – Banned in Canada (Some Brands)
Some Chyawanprash brands tested positive for high levels of lead, making them unsafe for consumption. Ayurvedic medicines with heavy metals have been a concern in Canada and other countries.
Ghee – Restricted in the US
Traditional desi ghee does not always meet the US definition of clarified butter and may be restricted due to concerns over its high saturated fat content. However, it is available in regulated forms.
Mustard Oil – Banned for Human Consumption in the US, Canada, and the EU
Mustard oil contains erucic acid, which has been linked to heart damage. It is labeled “For External Use Only” in many Western countries but remains widely used in India for cooking.
MDH and Everest Spice Mixes – Banned in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Nepal Restricted in EU and US
Authorities in Singapore and Hong Kong halted sales of certain spice mixes from prominent Indian brands MDH and Everest. The affected products included MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Masala Powder, and Curry Powder, as well as Everest’s Fish Curry Masala. These actions were taken after tests detected levels of ethylene oxide, a pesticide linked to cancer, exceeding permissible limits. There are broader concerns in the EU about their safety as well, with test showing levels of pesticide exceeding set limits.
Samosa – Banned in Somalia
The Al-Shabaab militant group, which controls parts of Somalia, imposed a ban on samosas in 2011. They claim that the triangular shape of the samosa resembles the Christian Holy Trinity, which goes against their strict interpretation of Islamic teachings.
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Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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