10 of the Strangest Food Laws Around the World (That Still Exist Today!)

Food laws are meant to keep us safe, but sometimes they lead to some truly bizarre and surprising rules. From outlawed foods to restrictions on food combinations, these strange laws still exist today and show how different cultures regulate what we eat. Ready to learn about some of the quirkiest food laws still in effect? Let’s dive in.

1. Ketchup Can’t Be Classified as a Vegetable in Schools – United States

In the 1980s, the U.S. tried to classify ketchup as a vegetable in school lunches to save money. The move sparked a huge debate about the definition of "vegetable," and eventually, the government declared that ketchup wasn’t actually a vegetable for nutritional purposes. Despite this, it remains a common school lunch condiment.

2. It’s Illegal to Eat Fried Chicken with a Fork – Georgia, USA

In Georgia, it’s actually illegal to eat fried chicken with a fork. The law, which is rarely enforced, was put in place to preserve the traditional Southern way of eating fried chicken by hand. So, if you're ever in Georgia, make sure to stick to the proper etiquette, or you might be breaking the law!

3. Raw Horse Meat – Japan

In Japan, it’s still legal to consume raw horse meat, known as sakura-niku (cherry blossom meat). This dish, often served as a delicacy in restaurants, is considered safe due to the strict food safety regulations in place. However, raw horse meat remains controversial and is not a common menu item elsewhere in the world.

4. No Licorice in Italy – Italy

If you’ve got a taste for licorice, you might want to leave it out of your shopping list if you’re in Italy. There’s a law that prohibits licorice-flavored candies from being sold, particularly those with added coloring or non-natural additives. The regulation is meant to promote healthier, natural food choices in the country.

5. No “Clinking” of Glasses in Hungary – Hungary

It’s considered illegal to clink glasses when making a toast in Hungary, but not for the reason you might think. It’s said to be a historic rule, stemming from the time when Austrians executed Hungarian revolutionaries by clinking their glasses before firing shots. To this day, it's still considered disrespectful to clink your glasses during a toast in Hungary.

6. No Pineapple on Pizza – Italy

While this law is often considered more of a cultural preference than a hard rule, it’s true that many Italians strongly believe that pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza. In fact, some regions have pushed for laws that prohibit the topping in certain settings, reinforcing Italy’s commitment to traditional pizza recipes and authenticity.

7. No Eating Raw Garlic – Switzerland

Switzerland has a law that forbids consuming raw garlic during certain hours of the day in certain regions, particularly in restaurants and public spaces. The reasoning? Garlic breath can be very overpowering and disruptive to social interactions. While not always strictly enforced, the law remains in place as part of the country's food regulations.

8. No Selling “Canned Air” – France

In France, it is illegal to sell canned air to tourists. While the concept of selling bottled fresh air may sound comical, the law was put in place to prevent misleading marketing and protect public health standards. It may sound strange, but in a country known for its emphasis on quality and authenticity, it’s actually taken very seriously.

9. No Eating or Drinking in Public – France

In some areas of France, eating or drinking in public is actually illegal, especially in parks or historical sites. The law is meant to encourage visitors and locals to enjoy their meals in cafes and restaurants rather than on the go, ensuring a proper dining experience in the country’s public spaces.

10. “Cheese War” – Switzerland and France

The cheese war between Switzerland and France is rooted in a long-standing conflict about the authenticity of Swiss and French cheeses. Each country has set strict laws and regulations on which cheeses can be produced and sold under specific names, with penalties for those who try to cross borders with unapproved varieties.

Final Thoughts: Laws That Shape What We Eat

These strange food laws are a reminder that food is more than just something we eat—it’s deeply connected to culture, history, and sometimes, even politics. Whether they’re quirky, outdated, or still being enforced today, these laws reflect the diverse ways in which different countries shape and regulate what’s on our plates. Next time you’re in a different country, remember that food might just come with a side of unexpected legal regulations!