7 Bizarre and Surprising Facts About Food and Drink Around the World

Food and drink are universal human experiences, and each culture has its own unique take on what to eat and how to prepare it. From exotic delicacies to strange cooking methods, there are countless interesting and sometimes downright bizarre facts about food and drink from around the world. In this article, we’ll explore 7 fascinating facts that are sure to surprise and delight foodies everywhere.

1. The world’s spiciest pepper is so hot it can cause respiratory distress There’s nothing quite like a spicy kick to your food, but the Carolina Reaper takes it to a whole new level. This pepper holds the Guinness World Record for being the world’s hottest pepper, with an average Scoville rating of 1.6 million units. To put that in perspective, a jalapeño pepper typically measures between 2,500 and 8,000 units. The Carolina Reaper is so hot that it can cause respiratory distress, and some people have even been hospitalized after eating it.
2. The world’s most expensive coffee is made from animal poop Kopi Luwak, also known as civet coffee, is made from coffee beans that have been eaten and excreted by civet cats. The enzymes in the cat’s digestive system are said to enhance the flavor of the coffee, making it smoother and less bitter. It’s also one of the rarest and most expensive coffees in the world, with a pound of beans selling for as much as $600.
3. In Japan, there’s a watermelon that’s perfectly square Watermelon is a staple summer fruit, but in Japan, it comes in a unique shape. The Densuke watermelon is grown exclusively on the island of Hokkaido and is known for its perfectly square shape and striking black skin. These watermelons are so prized that they can sell for as much as $6,000 each.
4. There’s a type of cheese that’s illegal in the United States Casu marzu is a traditional Sardinian cheese that’s made from sheep’s milk and allowed to ferment until it becomes infested with maggots. While this may sound unappetizing to most people, it’s considered a delicacy in Sardinia. However, the cheese is banned in the United States because it’s considered a health hazard.
5. The oldest wine in the world is over 8,000 years old Wine has been a part of human history for thousands of years, and the oldest wine in the world was discovered in Georgia and dates back over 8,000 years. The wine was found in clay jars and is believed to have been made from a type of grape that’s still grown in the region today.
6. The hottest pepperoni pizza in the world contains over 100 peppers If you’re a fan of spicy food, you might want to try the pizza at Paulie Gee’s in Brooklyn, New York. Their Hellboy pizza contains over 100 pieces of pepperoni, along with hot honey, spicy chili oil, and jalapeños. It’s so hot that customers are required to sign a waiver before they can order it.
7. In Mexico, there’s a type of ant that’s used as a condiment The Chicatana ant is a type of ant that’s found in southern Mexico and is known for its distinctive flavor. The ants are toasted, ground up, and used as a condiment for a variety of dishes, including tamales and soup. Some people even eat them straight up, like popcorn.

Food and drink have been a fundamental part of human existence for thousands of years. Throughout history, we’ve developed unique and diverse cuisines that reflect our cultures, values, and traditions. From exotic fruits and unusual culinary techniques to bizarre dishes and peculiar beverages, the world of food and drink is full of surprises. Hopefully, this article has expanded your knowledge of the culinary world and provided some fun and fascinating facts to impress your friends at your next dinner party. So go out there and explore the incredible variety of foods and drinks our world has to offer!