5 Strange Food Customs Around the World

There are many strange and unusual food customs around the world that might shock you or leave you curious. These customs can range from odd food pairings to eating unique ingredients. Here are five of the strangest food customs from around the world:

1. Balut in the Philippines
Balut is a popular Filipino delicacy that is made by boiling fertilized duck eggs. The eggs are boiled until the baby duck inside is cooked, and then the egg is eaten with salt and vinegar. This custom might seem odd to some, but it is a popular street food in the Philippines.

2. Hákarl in Iceland
Hákarl is a dish from Iceland that is made from fermented shark meat. The sharks are caught and left to ferment for several months. Once ready, the meat is cut into small pieces and served as a delicacy. The dish has a pungent ammonia-like smell that can be very off-putting.

3. Oysters with Lemon and Tabasco in the United States
In the United States, oysters are often served raw on the half-shell, with lemon and Tabasco sauce. This might not sound strange, but many people find the texture and taste of raw oysters to be unusual and unique.

4. Live Octopus in Korea
In Korea, live octopus is a delicacy that can be found in many seafood restaurants. The octopus is sliced into small pieces while still alive and served immediately. The tentacles of the octopus are extremely chewy and can be dangerous if not swallowed properly.

5. Fried Tarantulas in Cambodia
In Cambodia, fried tarantulas are a popular snack that is sold by street vendors. The spiders are fried with garlic and salt, and then served hot and crispy. While many people might find the idea of eating a spider to be strange, it is a delicacy that is enjoyed by many in Cambodia.

These are just a few of the many strange food customs from around the world. While some might seem unusual or even disgusting, it is important to remember that every culture has their own unique food customs and traditions.