“Their Fridges Are Like Double Our Size”: South Africans Show Experiences After Landing in the US

• A South African on holiday in America documented his shock at the overwhelming variety of processed foods, flavours and massive portion sizes in US supermarkets
• The content creator explored grocery stores filled with endless aisles of frozen foods, cereal options, pickle varieties, and pre-made meals that don't exist in South Africa
• Viewers reacted with concern about the health implications of American processed foods, with many commenting that they’re grateful for South Africa's more limited food options
• Briefly News spoke to health expert Jayshri Rangasamy regarding the processed food pandemic in the United states of America

A South African's holiday grocery shopping adventure in America while visiting family has left viewers both amazed and horrified at the differences between food options in the two countries.

Content creator @troybenderr shared his experience in May, exploring American supermarkets, documenting everything from "millions of flavours" of drinks to frozen corn dogs and pizza-flavoured soup. His video captures the culture shock many South Africans face when confronted with America's processed food varieties.

From the moment he arrived, the differences were clear.

"I was immediately introduced to the millions of flavours of Coke. I must say, with the amount I tried, a lot of them aren't good," he explained in the video.

The supermarket tour showed huge differences between American and South African shops. He was shocked by the frozen food section:

"When I tell you they were like 10 aisles worth of frozen foods and the fridges are like double our size..." he said.

Everything comes in huge sizes, even basic stuff like tuna and mayo. A giant jar costs just $3, which he thought was cheap for America. He saw more items that impressed him, especially when it came to the different sizes and the different flavours, showing just how much processed food exists in America.

Watch the TikTok clip below:

The processed food reality

The difference between American and South African food options reflects broader differences in food culture and regulations. America's processed food industry offers convenience and variety, but at a potential health cost. Studies have linked the abundance of ultra-processed foods in American diets to rising obesity rates and health issues.

While South African stores might seem limited in comparison, many viewers expressed gratitude for the simpler, less processed options available at home. The video serves as a reminder that what seems like endless choice might not always be beneficial, and that South Africa's more traditional food could actually be protecting public health.

Briefly News spoke to health expert Jayshri Rangasamy regarding the processed food pandemic in the US and what key health risks are associated with the widespread consumption of ultra-processed foods, and why consumers should get organic and minimally processed alternatives. She stated that:

"Processed foods, which are often high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives, have been strongly linked to lifestyle diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions due to their impact on metabolism, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation. In contrast, organic foods—grown without synthetic pesticides or additives—are associated with lower risks of these diseases."

"Studies show that people who frequently consume organic foods tend to have lower body mass index (BMI), reduced risk of obesity, and improved cardiometabolic health, including a lower likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes and hypertension. These benefits are likely due to higher nutrient density, fewer harmful residues, and better support for gut and immune health, all of which contribute to improved long-term wellness and reduced chronic disease burden."

TikTok user shops food-scented items

On 10 May, the TikTokker posted another clip of his shopping spree in the US. This time, he showcased a variety of food-scented candles, including pizza, corndogs, blazing hot chips, and popcorn. He was also amazed to discover that even some of the large deodorants and soaps had food scents. "I was sniffing my hands the whole day," he joked.

Later in the video, he flaunted his brother’s massive house, which featured a small lake. He claimed that two alligators live in the backyard lake of the impressive property.

See the TikTok clip below:

South African viewers react to processed paradise

The video sparked immediate reactions from South Africans concerned about the health implications of so much processed food.

@Nicky🌹 realised:

"I have just realised that in SA we have healthy food 😳😳😳"

@SoSue observed:

"Their stuff just looks unhealthy."

@Kels laughed:

"America and processed, fake food... I would not survive, bro 🤣🤣🤣"

@baddie_lee05 admitted:

"Kinda glad we have limits in SA imports or else I'd be a whale😱"

@Saint_305 complained:

"Soooo many processed foods, it's hurting my brain 😭"

@ASingleTearRip noted:

"That's why they are one of the fattest and high obese nations in the world 😂"

@Zee concluded:

"I'd lose weight because I'm not eating none of that."

3 More SA-US stories making waves

• An American woman's emotional welcome video for 49 Afrikaner refugees sparked debate after she compared their journey to historical migrations and expressed excitement about "MAGA-ing together."
• Briefly News also reported that a South African who's lived in America for 10 years celebrated the arrival of the first white SA refugees, calling them "so deserving" in a video that divided social media.
• Professor Loren Landau from Wits claimed Afrikaners are using Trump's refugee programme as an easy route to America rather than fleeing real persecution, causing mixed reactions.

Updated by Hilary Sekgota, Human Interest HOD at Briefly News.

Source: Briefly News