http://life-sight.com/food/7-foods-americans-eat-that-are-banned-in-other-countries/
#1: LOW-FAT AND FAT-FREE FOODS WITH OLESTRA
Frito Lay’s Light and Pringles Light are chips known contain an additive known as Olestra. Although it allows for the food to be labeled “fat-free”, research shows a consumer is better off eating the regular fat version. Olestra can cause abdominal cramps and discomfort, and lead to more food consumption in the long run. It is unapproved in many countries including Europe and Canada.
#2: MEATS CONTAINING RACTOPAMINE
Banned in over 160 countries, ractopamine is a drug that increases a process known as protein synthesis. The result is an animal that is larger and more muscular. This increases profit for the manufacturer by reducing fat content in the meat. Animal research has linked this drug to reduced fertility, birth defects, and increased chances of disability and death.
#3: CITRUS-FLAVORED SOFT DRINKS WITH BROMINATED VEGETABLE OIL
Some citrus flavored soft drinks such as Mountain Dew contain a synthetic chemical called brominated vegetable oil (BVO). BVO helps keep the citrus flavor evenly mixed into the drink. Classified as a flame retardant, BVO has been reported to cause skin lacerations, nerve disorders and memory loss. Animal studies have also shown that large doses caused behavioral and reproductive problems.
#4: CHICKEN MEAT CONTAINING ARSENIC
The FDA reveals that chicken meat sold in the United States contains the cancer-causing chemical arsenic. This toxic substance is fatal when consumed in high doses. Livestock farmers feed their chicken arsenic because it increases growth (resulting in more profit), treats some diseases and produces better pigment in the meat. Severe cases of arsenic poisoning have caused stomach cramps, blood in urine and a metallic taste in the mouth.
#5: MILK AND DAIRY PRODUCTS CONTAINING RECOMBINANT BOVINE GROWTH HORMONE
Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) is a man-made hormone that increases milk production in cows. The use of rBGH has been shown to cause various health problems in cows such as mastitis. This results in frequent use of antibiotics for treatment, which could make humans develop an antibiotic resistance. Due to the risks involved, many countries including the European Union, and Canada have banned the use rBHGH in their milk producing cows.
#6: BREAD BAKED USING POTASSIUM BROMATE
It is common to find bread that contains potassium bromate in the United States. Banned in countries such as China, Europe, Canada and Brazil, this agent is considered to be unnecessary in the baking process. It is typically used for convenience due to its bread bleaching properties. The end result is fluffy, soft white bread. Japanese researchers found that potassium bromate causes cancer in the kidneys, thyroid and other body parts in mice.
#7: FOODS CONTAINING THE PRESERVATIVES BHA AND BHT
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are preservatives commonly used in instant mashed potatoes, butters, cereals and preserved meats. They keep food fresh longer. Although they are known to have potential antioxidant properties, many choose not to consume products containing BHA and BHT due to their unknown harmful effects in human beings. BHA causes cancer in mice, rats and hamsters. Although they are believed to be safe in low levels, there are alternatives that do not contain these preservatives.