The neighboring North American countries of the US and Canada boast many similarities and differences. While they share a lot in common, some things are distinctly American, just like the following 17 exclusively American things not found in Canada.
Almond Joy
As one of America’s biggest candy bars, you would expect to see Almond Joy across the world, but it’s unlikely you’ll see them outside of the US. There is no distribution chain for Almond Joy in Canada, and you won’t spot one in a Canadian convenience store. More for us!
Dunkin’ Donuts
Across the US, Dunkin’ Donuts seems to be on almost every street corner, but once you cross the border, it quickly fades away. According to Eater Montreal, Dunkin’ once had a heavy presence in Canada, but the final Dunkin’ closed in 2018.
Little Debbie Snack Cakes
Little Debbie is a huge brand in the US, but in 2022, the Canadian distributing company ended its business relationship with the brand. Although Canada didn’t have the same extensive selection of products that the US has, many were well-loved, including the iconic Christmas Tree Cakes.
Cookie Crisp
A lot of America’s favorite breakfast cereals aren’t on the shelves in Canada. The Canadian cereal aisle is tiny in comparison to America’s, and with stricter food standards, Cookie Crisp is just one of many US cereals that don’t exist in Canada. If you ask us, that’s a tragedy!
Easy Cheese
Spray cheese is hugely popular in the US but not in Canada. It is impossible to find cheese in a can, and there doesn’t seem to be a clear reason for this; it just doesn’t appear on the shelves. After Canadians finally get their hands on Easy Cheese, they’re always fascinated by it.
Moon Pies
Many argue that Canada has Wagon Wheels, but they’re just not the same as American Moon Pies. These popular chocolate-coated marshmallow and graham cracker snacks are beautifully moreish, but as Canada already has a similar product, it has never been introduced across the border.
Candied jalapenos
Extremely popular in states like Texas, candied jalapenos are a highly versatile product loved on everything from sandwiches to crackers alongside cream cheese. If you’re Canadian and manage to get your hands on this cowboy candy, bulk buy it, as you won’t find it on your side of the border!
Target
Americans love Target, but Canadians no longer get that experience. Target is now exclusively an American brand, but it wasn’t always this way. CNBC reports that Target once attempted international expansion into Canada in 2011. However, after only four years in the country, Target Canada ceased operation in 2015.
Tootsie Rolls
One of America’s favorite little treats, Tootsie Rolls, is not available in Canada. The major cities feature a number of international candy stores where you may be able to find them but don’t expect to see them wandering the grocery aisles.
White Castle
White Castle’s hamburger restaurant remains exclusively American, and the franchise has never opened a single restaurant in Canada. However, Canadians who love White Castle can actually purchase frozen White Castle hamburgers from Walmart and select convenience stores, so at least that’s an option.
Oreos
While Oreos exist in Canada, they don’t exist in the wide array they do in the US. In Canada, you can grab regular Oreos and possibly Double Stuf and Golden, depending on where you shop. However, don’t expect the large share packs on interesting flavors; Canada has a more limited selection.
Bugles
CBC reminds us of the sad fact that Bugles disappeared from Canadian stores after distribution stopped in 2022. The crunchy snack was popular in the country, so many Canadians were left baffled. There have been attempts to introduce alternatives, but they’re just not the same as classic Bugles.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s was founded in 1967, but it wasn’t until the 2010s that it became wildly successful. Now one of America’s most popular grocery stores, Trader Joe’s has unique products that draw in shoppers. However, you won’t find a store in Canada, and there are no intentions to expand it any time soon.
Garbage disposals
Moving on to something different, Garbage disposals are a common feature in an American home, but they are rare in Canada. Certain Canadian municipalities also completely ban them due to Canada’s concerns over garbage disposals’ strain on wastewater treatment systems.
Pepper spray
Although pepper spray is commonly carried for self-defense in the US, it’s illegal in Canada. It is considered a prohibited weapon, and you will be charged with a criminal offense if you are found possessing or carrying pepper spray, even if self-defense is the intention. Remember this if you’re planning a visit!
ALDI
German grocery store ALDI is wildly successful across Europe and is now gaining traction in the US, so why doesn’t Canada have it yet?? Even the Competition Bureau emphasizes that Canada needs more grocery store competitors, so hopefully, it will only be a matter of time before Canada has ALDI, too.
Hulu
Finally, Hulu is one of America’s most popular streaming services, yet it’s not available in Canada. The service only works in the US, although many countries, such as the UK, feature Hulu shows on their own streaming services. This is not the case in Canada, and you’ll have to completely miss out on popular Hulu shows when you visit.
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