23 Foods American Tourists Should Never Touch Overseas

Embarking on an international adventure opens up a world of culinary delights, but not all dishes are created equal. As an American tourist, you must learn how to order from exotic menus without turning your stomach into a battleground. Knowing which local specialties to skip can be just as important as the ones to savor.

1. Fugu (Japan)

Fugu, or pufferfish, requires precise preparation to avoid its toxic parts. It’s best left to the adventurous eaters due to its deadly potential.

2. Sannakji (South Korea)

This dish of live octopus is eaten while still wriggling. Its suction cups can stick to your throat if not chewed properly.

3. Casu Marzu (Italy)

Found in Sardinia, this sheep’s milk cheese contains live maggots and is considered hazardous by health authorities.

4. Hákarl (Iceland)

Fermented shark that has an overpowering ammonia-rich smell and taste, commonly challenging for the uninitiated.

5. Blood Sausages (Global)

Common in many countries, blood sausages can be a risky eat if not cooked properly due to bloodborne pathogens.

6. Bushmeat (Africa)

Besides ethical concerns, bushmeat like bats or monkeys can carry diseases transmissible to humans.

7. Raw Milk Cheeses (Global)

Unpasteurized cheeses can harbor harmful bacteria like Listeria, especially risky for pregnant women.

8. Century Eggs (China)

These preserved eggs have an intense ammonia smell and a strong flavor, often an acquired taste not suited for everyone.

9. Balut (Philippines)

A fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo inside, this delicacy is not for the faint of heart.

10. Ortolan (France)

This controversial dish involves eating a small bird whole, which might be unsettling for some due to the preparation method.

11. Lutefisk (Norway)

Made from aged stockfish and lye, its gelatinous texture and strong, pungent aroma are not universally enjoyed.

12. Fried Tarantulas (Cambodia)

While considered a delicacy in Cambodia, the idea of munching on spiders may not be appetizing to many tourists.

13. Surströmming (Sweden)

This fermented herring is so smelly it’s usually eaten outdoors, challenging even for those with adventurous palates.

14. Pig’s Blood Cake (Taiwan)

A street food made from sticky rice and pig blood, not recommended for those squeamish about blood-based foods.

15. Stinkheads (Alaska, USA)

Fermented salmon heads, known as stinkheads, can be a difficult sell for those not accustomed to fermented fish.

16. Bird’s Nest Soup (Southeast Asia)

Made from swiftlets’ nests constructed from saliva, it’s expensive and has a unique texture that might not appeal to all.

17. Akutaq (Alaska, USA)

Also known as Eskimo ice cream, it includes fat, berries, and sometimes fish, which might be an unusual combination for many.

18. Durian (Southeast Asia)

Known as the ‘king of fruits’, durian’s overpowering smell is either loved or loathed and is banned in some public places.

19. Kopi Luwak (Indonesia)

This coffee made from beans digested by civets is controversial due to ethical concerns in production practices.

20. Escamoles (Mexico)

Ant larvae known as “Mexican caviar” might be off-putting due to their origin and texture.

21. Pidan (China)

Also known as a “thousand-year egg”, its strong odor and jelly-like texture are not typically enjoyed by everyone.

22. Raw Shellfish (Global)

Raw oysters and other shellfish can carry bacteria and viruses, posing a risk of foodborne illness.

23. Hakarl (Iceland)

Repeated from earlier but worth emphasizing, this fermented shark can be a particularly challenging food due to its strong flavor and smell.

Bon Appétit

Always consider your health and personal tastes when trying new foods, and when in doubt, stick to what you find comfortable and enjoyable. This way, you ensure your dining experiences contribute positively to your travels!

Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

Discover chilling tales from the America’s spookiest roads complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

The post 23 Foods American Tourists Should Never Touch Overseas was first published on PassingThru.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nicoleta Ionescu.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip

PassingThru is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

To view PassingThru’s privacy policy, click here.