American Snacks Banned in Europe: A Deep Dive into Food Additive Concerns

As American food companies increasingly re-evaluate the ingredients in their products, a growing alignment with European food safety standards seems likely. Many American products have been either banned or reformulated to meet the stricter regulations of the European Union, which prioritize consumer protection from potentially harmful additives. Currently, several popular U.S. Snacks remain prohibited in Europe due to these differing food laws. Here’s a look at five American snacks not allowed in Europe and the reasons behind the bans.

Lucky Charms

General Mills’ Lucky Charms cereal faces restrictions, if not outright bans, in parts of Europe due to the presence of artificial dyes Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6.¹ These dyes contribute to the cereal’s vibrant marshmallow colors, but Norway and Austria have specifically prohibited them. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently considering phasing out Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Blue 2 by the end of 2026, potentially bringing U.S. Formulations closer to European standards.

Skittles

Skittles, manufactured by Mars, were reformulated in Europe to remove titanium dioxide, a color additive and whitener banned in the European Union in 2022.¹ Following years of campaigning by health groups concerned about the potential dangers of this additive, Mars eventually removed titanium dioxide from Skittles sold in the United States as well.

Little Debbie Swiss Rolls

Little Debbie Swiss Rolls, produced by McKee Foods Corporation, are banned in Norway and Austria due to their inclusion of artificial dyes Yellow 5 and Red 40.¹ Elizabeth W. Barnhardt, DO, MA, of Ohio State Health, notes that “Food dyes and some other additives are a public health concern. Even children and young adults without a mental health condition could grow agitated after having food dye.”

Nestle’s Drumsticks

Nestle’s Drumstick frozen desserts are prohibited in Europe given that they contain carrageenan, a thickening agent derived from seaweed.¹ Carrageenan is sometimes found unexpectedly in products like heavy cream, even those labeled organic, so careful label checking is advised.

Honey Bunches of Oats

Post’s Honey Bunches of Oats (and Rice Krispies) contain butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a flavor enhancer banned in both the European Union and Japan.¹ According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), while BHT is not classified as a human carcinogen, it is identified as a human respiratory irritant.