An american food shop is a bit of a treasure hunt if you live outside the US. These stores, which sell snacks, sauces, baking mixes and drinks imported from American brands, are popular with expats, students, travellers and anyone curious about US supermarket staples. Here is how to shop smart.
What these shops usually sell
The typical shelf includes breakfast cereals in colourful boxes, peanut butter in different styles, pancake mix and maple syrup, barbecue sauces, hot sauces and condiments such as ranch dressing. You may also find candy bars, soda flavours not sold elsewhere, baking items like brownie mix and marshmallows and sometimes frozen goods such as bagels and pies.
Popular items worth trying
- Peanut butter and jelly, the classic sandwich pair
- Pancake mix and syrup for a weekend breakfast
- Mac and cheese in a box, a comfort food for many
- Sweet cereals and toaster pastries
- Hot sauces and barbecue sauces for grilling
- Root beer and other soft drinks
Take care with expectations: some products taste different from the ones sold in your country because recipes vary.
Where to find them
Large cities often have a dedicated store, and some international supermarkets have an American aisle. Online shops ship across borders, though shipping costs can be steep for heavy or perishable items. Specialty stores near military bases, universities and big expat communities often have the widest range. If you are travelling in the US, a regular supermarket will do the same job for much less.
Reading labels and checking rules
Food import rules vary. Some countries restrict certain meat, dairy and plant products, and you should always check your local customs guidance before ordering. Labels may list ingredients and allergens in English only, so if you have allergies, check carefully. Also look at the best-before date, because imported goods may sit on shelves longer.
Prices
Imported items usually cost much more than in the US because of shipping, taxes and small sales volumes. Buying a few favourites rather than a full shopping basket is a good strategy. Watch for bulk offers and seasonal sales, such as before Thanksgiving or in summer barbecue season.
Planning a trip to America?
If you are going to the US yourself, food is a big part of the trip. Our notes on how much to tip in the US explain what to leave at restaurants and cafés.
Tips for a good haul
Make a list so you don’t overspend, check weights for shipping, and share large packs with friends. If you are bringing items home from a US trip, pack sauces in sealed bags to avoid leaks, and keep the original packaging for customs.
In short
A good American food shop is a place for comfort, curiosity and the occasional guilty pleasure. Shop thoughtfully, taste with an open mind and enjoy. More guides are posted on invisionfree.com. For background on cuisine see American cuisine on Wikipedia.
