Seven Food Products Banned in Europe Still Available in the U.S.

1. Genetically Modified Foods
Although the E.U. is continuously coming under attack for policies banning genetically modified (GM) foods, the community is highly suspicious of them, as well as the agro-industrial pressures that drive their use. The problem with GM foods is that there is simply not sufficient research and understanding to inform good public policy. In spite of widespread GM use without apparent negative impacts in other countries, the recent public reaction to trans-fats are reason enough to support a precautionary principle for the food supply chain.

2. Stevia, the Natural Sweetener
The U.S. recently approved this “natural” sweetener as a food additive. Previously, it was sold in the U.S. under the less stringent dietary supplement laws. It has been embraced in Japan for over three decades, but E.U. bans still stand, pointing to potential disturbances in fertility and other negative health impacts. But the sweetener is credited with potentially positive health effects, too. Is this a case where consumer choice should prevail?

3. Bovine Growth Hormone
This drug, known as rBGH for short, is not allowed in Europe. In contrast, U.S. citizens struggle even for laws that allow hormone-free labeling so that consumers have a choice. This should be an easy black-and-white decision for all regulators and any corporation that’s really concerned about sustainability: give consumers the information. We deserve control over our food choices.

4. Chlorinated Chickens
Amid cries that eating American chickens would degrade European citizens to the status of guinea pigs, the E.U. continued a ban on chickens washed in chlorine. The ban effectively prevents all import of chickens from the U.S. into Europe. If chicken chlorination is “totally absurd” and “outrageous” for Europeans, what does that mean for Americans?

5. Food Contact Chemicals
Phthalates and bisphenols in plastic are really beneficial. They help manufacturers create plastic products with the softness and moldability needed to fulfill consumer needs. But when the food contact additives are found in the food and liquids contained by those plastics, trouble starts. Both the U.S. and Europe stringently regulate food contact use of chemicals. However, the standard of approval is different. In Europe, the precautionary principle requires that the suppliers of chemicals prove their additives safe, or they will be banned. Of course, although the E.U. has banned phthalates in toys, both phthalates and bisphenol-A remain approved for food contact uses—subject to strict regulations on their use.