There’s just something about US snacks. From childhood classics to cult convenience store finds, American snacks have a boldness and variety that's hard to replicate anywhere else in the world. Ranch dressing, Pop-Tarts, that peanut butter that just never tastes quite the same anywhere else – the list of what expats miss is long, and every American living abroad will tell you exactly that.
And it's not just expats who are missing out. If you've never set foot in the US, chances are you've spotted these iconic staples in your favorite movies and TV shows and wondered what all the fuss is about.
So how do you get a taste of home when you're living abroad? Or finally try the snacks you've been curious about for years? With forward2me, you can shop directly from US retailers and have your favorite American snacks shipped straight to your door, wherever you are in the world.
Here are 10 iconic US foods that are nearly impossible to find abroad, but easy to get your hands on with forward2me.
The flavor balance and the intriguing salty-sweet combination turn Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into an instant American classic. The creamy texture of the peanut butter, which is distinctly American, contributes to the iconic status of this sweet temptation even further.
Many people associate this sweet treat with their childhood, which is why US expats in other countries often wish they’d get the opportunity to feel the sweet and salty combo on their tongue once again.
In the US, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are so beloved and popular that multiple variations of the classic have come into existence. Dark chocolate, white chocolate, caramel, and seasonal flavor cups are readily available.
While the chocolate cups are considered a US sweet staple, this delectable treat isn’t readily available in other parts of the world. Often, the reason for the discrepancy is the status of peanut butter. It’s simply not as popular in other countries as it is in the US.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in the US are also so sought after because of their affordability. The decadent dessert is priced anywhere between one and three dollars for the standard pack. Family-sized packs are even more affordable.
Did you know that Hidden Valley Ranch is the original brand of US ranch dressing? The classic ranch dressing was created in the 1950s, and ever since, it’s become a culinary staple. Today, the creamy dressing is used on almost everything from salads to pizza slices.
There isn’t a single family gathering that doesn’t feature some delicious meal accompanied by ranch. The nostalgia factor is strong with this one, especially given the fact that authentic ranch is nearly impossible to find outside the US.
In the US, ranch is such a beloved condiment that multiple varieties have been created through the years. Apart from the classic flavor, you can easily find spicy, buttermilk, dry seasoning ranch mix, and others.
Taste preferences and culinary traditions in other parts of the world reduce the popularity of US ranch – there simply isn’t such a huge market for the condiment.
Like our previous culinary staple, ranch is fairly affordable in the US. It costs about three to six dollars, with seasoning packets being even more affordable.
Pop-Tarts are breakfast nostalgia personified. Introduced in the 1960s, these toaster pastries with their sweet fillings easily bring back childhood memories. Pop-Tarts were born out of the need for convenience. They’re readily available, affordable, and portable, which makes them ideal for fast-paced and dynamic lifestyles.
While more than 20 flavors are available in the US, the international market is limited to just a couple of classics. The huge range of flavors includes crowd pleasers like strawberry and brown sugar cinnamon. Limited seasonal releases, cookies and cream, and hot fudge sundae add some variety and intricacy to the flavor mix.
Breakfast traditions vary across the world, but this distinctive concept can be considered strictly American. That’s the main reason why Pop-Tarts can be notoriously difficult to find in other countries. In the US, a standard Pop-Tart box costs about three to six dollars, depending on the flavor.
Even if you’re not from the US, you’ll easily recognize the bright red color and the spiciness of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The signature chili seasoning is the one thing that makes this Cheetos variety iconic. Combined with a cheesy flavor and a crunchy texture, the spicy mix contributes to a snack like no other.
Youth culture has contributed to the popularity of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. If you watch social media content, you’ve probably come across at least one Flamin’ Hot Cheetos challenge. The unique heat turns Flamin’ Hot Cheetos into a crowd pleaser. Food regulations and differences in spice tolerance, however, make the red crunchy corn snacks very difficult to find outside the US.
Often called “The Blue Box,” this boxed pasta dinner is quintessentially American. The set consists of macaroni and a packet of cheese powder, contributing to a convenient, hearty, and easy-to-prepare meal. Like other US staples in this list, Kraft Mac & Cheese is a nostalgic meal for many. It’s also an essential college meal – both affordable and easy to make.
The specific texture of the cheese powder packet is the one thing that sets Kraft Mac & Cheese apart from other varieties. And the classic is just the beginning. Extra-cheesy, thick and creamy, cheddar, and limited-edition flavor profiles also exist.
With its price of one to three dollars per box, Kraft Mac & Cheese is especially affordable. In many parts of the world outside the US, homemade pasta and macaroni are the norm. That’s why Kraft Mac & Cheese isn’t demanded or readily available.
Sold exclusively in the US grocery chain Trader Joe’s, this wide range of private-label foods has a nearly cult following.
Trader Joe’s concept is unique and fun. The grocery chain offers foods inspired by international classics but with a distinctive American twist. Some of the most beloved Trader Joe’s offerings include cookie butter, Everything but the Bagel seasoning, Unexpected Cheddar, and Hold the Cone Mini Ice Cream cones.
There’s a reason why these items are exclusive to the US – Trader Joe’s doesn’t have international locations in most countries. A few European stores carry a limited Trader Joe’s selection, but the product range is incredibly restricted.
Lucky Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, General Mills’ – these are all iconic American breakfast cereal brands. Anyone who has grown up in the US has enjoyed at least one of these varieties for breakfast in their childhood.
The experience of choosing a favorite cereal and the fact that many of the boxes contain surprise toys have both turned these products into US culinary icons. The variety is also incredible, making it easy for each child to discover the breakfast option best aligned with their preferences.
American cereals aren’t available globally because of sugar content restrictions. A strong competition from local breakfast brands, paired with import costs, also contributes to a very limited American cereal variety in local stores.
US cereals rank among the most affordable breakfast choices in the country. A standard box comes with a price tag of anywhere between three and seven dollars.
A1 Steak Sauce is a part of the US culture associated with family cookouts and summer grilling in the backyard. The very specific tangy-sweet flavor profile is another reason why Americans are drawn to this sauce and are looking for it, regardless of their location.
The sauce is quite versatile and can be added to burgers and meatloaves, apart from grilled meat. Relatively affordable, the sauce costs between four and eight dollars per bottle. Variations exist, allowing buyers to tailor their BBQ experience.
If you want classic American candy bars, look no further. Peanut-based flavors and a crunchy texture deliver the kind of satisfaction you simply can’t obtain from another dessert. Butterfingers, Baby Ruth, and Payday candy bars are especially popular Halloween treats. So many people grew up trading such sweets with friends on the special holiday occasion.
Seasonal versions, mini packs, and limited-edition varieties of all three are readily available across the US. The cost is once again manageable – in the one-to-three-dollar range. International availability is once again limited because of the dominant flavor of peanut butter.
If the names Sweet Baby Ray’s and Stubb’s ring a bell, then you’re a fan of classic US BBQ sauces. Sweety, tangy, smoky, these condiments are a must for a quality grilling experience.
Interestingly enough, different regions in the US have their own varieties. Kansas City, Texas, the Carolinas, and Memphis have their own signature flavors. These range from sweet and smoky to spicy and even acidic.
Because BBQ sauce variations by country are huge, these classic US sauces aren’t readily available internationally. Most of these sauces offer excellent value in US stores. You can find a bottle for anywhere between three and seven dollars, depending on the size and the variety.
Parcel forwarding solutions like the one made available by forward2me simplify the process of importing your favorite US treats locally.
Here’s how the process works:
We will consolidate and ship internationally to your current address
We have a few suggestions that can increase convenience and give you better value when you buy US foods not available abroad.
Here’s how to make the most of each order:
Are you wondering where to buy American candy abroad and how to acquire favorite foods that simply aren’t available in the country where you live? forward2me has your back. Walmart, Target, and Amazon US shopping has never been easier.
Geography no longer limits the opportunities you enjoy. Bringing back childhood memories and favorites from your home doesn’t have to be a cumbersome or expensive endeavor. It’s time to stock your pantry with the flavors you’ve been missing. Just do some local shopping and let forward2me handle the rest.
Craving some Flamin’ Hot Cheetos? Sign up for a US address right now and embark on a new and exciting shopping journey. To find some inspiration, browse US food retailers in our Shopping Center.
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