Bread Choices
While the average American grocery store has many types of bread for customers to choose from, Germany takes it to a whole new level. If you were ever overwhelmed by the number of bread options at your local store, wait until you go to Germany.
The country boasts 3,000 different types of bread, which means that to satisfy all of its residents, German grocery stores need to offer a huge array of bread choices. Head to the bakery aisle, and you’ll probably spend an hour there trying to choose which loaf to take home.
Unrefrigerated Eggs
If you’re trying to make some scrambled eggs during your European vacation, you might not find the eggs where you usually would in your American grocery store. In some European countries such as Britain, France and Germany, eggs are kept unrefrigerated, and you would usually find them on the shelves.
Unlike the U.S., where eggs are washed to decrease the risk of salmonella, European countries vaccinate their chickens to keep their residents healthy. However, washing the eggs removes the protective barrier known as the cuticle. Without this layer, eggs must be kept at lower temperatures.
Ham Jungle
Cured ham is probably one of the most famous food items that come from Spain. So it should be of no surprise to find aisles of “jamón” dangling in the grocery stores. Some refer to the experience of walking through the meat section as walking through a ham jungle.
For anybody that loves the taste of cured ham or would like to add it to their tapas or paella, Spanish grocery stores are likely the equivalent of heaven. You will for sure find the perfect “jamón” to satisfy any cravings.
Chocolate Heaven
While the U.S. is known for having a wide variety of candy to choose from, it cannot beat Europe when it comes to chocolate. To put things into perspective, you’ll only find about 2.87 meters of aisle space dedicated to chocolate in your average American grocery store.
However, in the U.K, if you’re craving some velvety chocolate, you’ll be faced with a 15.6-meter-long aisle with never-ending rows of chocolate. So if you were never a chocolate lover, maybe a trip to the U.K might change your mind.
The “American” Food Aisle
If you aren’t from the U.S., then you’re likely curious about all the candy options that exist in America. This is why in many European grocery stores, you’ll find an aisle dedicated to “American” food.
Here you’ll find food that is probably less typical than the food locals usually have. For instance, you’re likely to encounter Pop-Tarts, Marshmallow Fluff and of course Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. So if you’re ever feeling homesick during your European vacation, make sure to check for the “American” aisle.
Horse Meat Baby Food
We all know that each country has its own cuisine and a particular set of preferred flavors. Some foods in other countries might seem rather strange for somebody that didn’t grow up exposed to that variety of dishes.
In countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Italy, horse meat happens to be a common choice for consumption. However, it is the horse meat baby food option that probably feels the most perplexing to some Americans.
Recycling Revolution
We are all aware that recycling is the right thing to do. Unfortunately, some countries are a lot more reluctant to place strict measures to ensure that all the population is on board with the green initiative.
This is not the case for Germany, where it is common practice for people to recycle glass and plastic bottles at designated points near the grocery store. In return for their cooperation, the machine will give them a voucher that can be used during checkout.
“American Sizes”
We already talked about how European supermarkets will have an aisle specifically assigned to American products, so then it should come as no surprise that there are also items that are referred to as “American-sized.”
America is a country known for serving large portions, which is why in Finland, stores will offer a huge jar of mayonnaise labeled “American Size.”. However, if you’re a loyal Costco customer, you’ll realize that this jar is not as large as Costco’s average mayo jar.
Four Pack Beer
In America, if you’re having a barbecue, it is very likely that one of the people joining the party is assigned to bring a six-pack of beer. However, in the U.K., six-packs are not nearly as common as they are in the U.S.
Instead, what you’ll find in most stores is a four-pack of beer. So if you’re holding a get-together during your stay in the U.K. or you’re responsible for bringing drinks, be prepared to only find packs of four.
All Types Of Cheese
While Americans are certainly great lovers of cheese, nobody can beat France or Germany when it comes to cheese production. If you head to either of these countries, you’ll be surprised to see that the cheese selection is much larger than in your average American store.
In fact, within the European Union, Germany is the country that produces the most cheese. With 2.2 million tons of cheese produced yearly, it is no surprise that there are rows and rows of all sorts of cheese in the supermarkets’ refrigerators.
Unchilled Milk
We already talked about how most European countries do not put their eggs in the fridge. But what about milk? While this might be extremely strange for Americans, the truth is that it is common for French milk to be stored outside the refrigerator.
This is because, in France, dairy products are pasteurized at very high temperatures, which means that as long as the milk remains unopened, it can be stored outside without refrigeration for weeks.
Everything In A Tube
If you were to imagine squeezing anything from a tube that is meant to be edible, you would probably think about tomato paste or some sort of salad seasoning. This is not the case in Sweden, where a variety of food comes in tubes.
Whether it’s mayo, caviar or cheese, Swedish people are used to squeezing their food out. The most popular food that comes in tubes might be the flavored cheese, which comes in a variety of flavors including crab and lobster.
Gourmet Microwave Meals
Ready meals can be super convenient when you don’t have time to cook, or you didn’t meal prep the day before. However, people don’t really choose ready meals because of their exquisite flavor; instead, it’s just out of convenience.
In the U.K., however, ready meals are much more than just convenient ways to fill your stomach. Many supermarkets offer a wide variety of gourmet microwave meals that are both healthy and delicious. Not only that, but they also cater to several different diets, such as vegan and low-fat.
Cheese Strengths
We’ve already discussed how France and Germany have a great love for cheese that is evident through the sheer amount of cheese they produce each year. However, the U.K. has a different way of displaying its love for cheese.
In many British grocery stores, you’ll find that cheese is categorized based on how strong it is. For instance, a one would indicate a very mild cheese while a six would indicate a very strong one.
Pizza Burger Hot Dog
At this point, we already know that it isn’t uncommon for someone to come across an American aisle in a European grocery store. But some of these products aren’t exactly American, but more like a mixture of popular U.S. foods.
Take this Pizzaburger Hot Dog as an example. Certainly, it was inspired by popular foods that are frequently consumed in the U.S., but this creation seems to go beyond your typical “American Food” find.
Leave Your Things At The Door
If you ever find yourself in a Spanish grocery store, you’ll likely encounter lockers near the entrance. This is where you’re expected to leave any large bags that you’re carrying in order to decrease the chances of shoplifting.
While you might find this strange and try to avoid leaving your belongings in these lockers, it is highly suggested you go with the flow and follow what locals are doing. If you don’t, don’t be surprised when a security guard or cashier questions your decision to ignore the lockers.
Ironing Water
Most of us already use scented detergents to make our clothes smell nice. Some of us have fabric softeners that also come in some sort of scent. But have you ever heard of scented ironing water?
In the U.K., you can find stores selling ironing water that is meant to add a nice scent to your clothes. But considering we already have these detergents that leave a freshly laundered smell on our garments, people are questioning the need for ironing water.
Sugar Daddy
If you were to tell an American that you bought a sugar daddy, they would definitely give you a very puzzled look. After all, the term ‘sugar daddy’ refers to an older rich man that uses money to attract a younger partner.
However, in France, sugar daddy doesn’t have the same meaning at all. Instead, it is simply the name of a sugar brand that is quite common in any supermarket. So if you ever visit France, keep a lookout for this funny sugar brand.
Vegan Heaven
The vegan movement has most certainly gained quite a following in the U.S., and vegan mock meats are a lot more common than they used to be. However, nothing compares to the number of vegan options that one can find in Germany.
German grocery stores tend to have a whole section that is dedicated to vegan food. Expect to find basically anything that is normally meat-based, but plant-based. From steak and chicken to sausage and cheese, German stores have them all veganized.
American Bread
You’ve probably heard of the popular French baguette, and maybe you expected French people to choose baguette over any type of bread. Surprisingly though, the nation has been influenced by how other countries make bread and that includes the U.S.
If you head to a French grocery store, you might find that white loaves are labeled as “American.” So if you’re trying to make yourself a sandwich in France, the country has you covered when it comes to the fluffy bread you’re used to.
Paying For Plastic Bags
Rewarding customers with vouchers for recycling is not the only way European countries are fighting climate change. A very common practice in European grocery stores is to charge their customers for plastic bags.
While these bags are not very expensive, it is enough to encourage people to bring their own reusable bags! It’s the little steps that count when it comes to promoting a whole nation to be more conscious about its carbon footprint.
Bigger Beers
While the U.K. sells beer in packs of four instead of six, Germany also has a different way to sell beer than the U.S. has. Known for its beer, Germany is proud of its standard bottle, which holds about a cup more than the standard American bottle.
Not only that but the beer bottles that are found in the U.S are often referred to as “baby-sized” in Germany. So for anybody that is a big fan of beer, Germany is the place to be.
Haribo Of Every Flavor
Haribo gummy bears have gained popularity all around the world. The most popular package is probably the one offering gummy bears in white, yellow, green, red and orange. Naturally, one would expect Germany, home of Haribo, to offer a larger range of flavors.
However, if you come across a supermarket in Germany, you’ll find yourself staring at a whole aisle dedicated to Haribo. The flavors are endless, and you might spend a good amount of time staring at the options before you choose your preferred gummies.
Hot Dogs In Jars
While Americans are known for enjoying hot dogs as part of their diet, some might find it very odd that hot dogs in France that are labeled as “American-style” actually come in jars. This might be particularly strange since most hot dogs you find in the U.S come in regular packages.
Most Americans would be highly confused to encounter hot dogs sitting in a liquid inside a jar. So perhaps skipping the hot dogs in the French grocery store and opting for some local cuisine might be a better choice.
Gloves
Picking up fresh produce in American stores is common practice. Usually, one simply grabs what they want, places it in a plastic bag, and they’re set. However, this is definitely not the right way to do it in Italy, where wearing gloves is expected.
If you find yourself in an Italian grocery store, you’ll find disposable hand coverings near the produce aisle that are meant to be worn to touch any of the fruit and vegetables. Not using gloves runs the risk of angering locals.
So Much Muesli
While muesli is not as popular as granola is in the U.S, it is still a breakfast and topping option that many Americans enjoy. In Germany, however, muesli seems to be so much more than just a topping option.
German grocery stores have several shelves stocked with just muesli. They offer several different variations, including fruit, chocolate, yogurt, and so much more. The options are endless, and if you’re not German, you might want to stay longer just to try more flavors.