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10 products that existed only in the USSR
The Soviet Union left a huge imprint on almost every aspect of human life. Of course, it also influenced the principles of nutrition, which we cannot get rid of to this day.
In addition, there were unique products on the territory of the former USSR that could not be purchased in any other country in the world. Most of them disappeared from the market almost immediately after the collapse of the Soviet Union. FoodOboz figured out which products we are talking about.
Kisselin briquettes
This is one of the most popular desserts that existed in the USSR. It was made in the form of dense tiles, which could be dissolved in hot water to make a thick fruity drink. It was a kind of answer to the smoothie, a drink that was extremely popular in the "bourgeois west."
Condensed milk
This is one of the favorite treats of all children living in the USSR. It was used to make desserts, added to tea or coffee, or simply eaten with a spoon. This product was in short supply, so the people of the Soviet Union could often enjoy condensed milk only on major holidays.
Bird's milk
For some reason, it is commonly believed that Bird's Milk candies were an exclusively Soviet invention. But in fact, this recipe came to the USSR from Poland, where confectioner Jan Wedel is considered to be its inventor. The popularity of this dessert was so great that it was produced in almost all regions of the country at the time.
Druzhba cheese
There is a legend that this product was invented by Soviet food scientists as a worthy substitute for meat for cosmonauts. At that time, processed cheese was made exclusively from dairy products and was considered healthy.
Kvass
This traditional Slavic drink became very popular in the USSR. In cities, the drink was sold on the streets from large yellow barrels and was extremely popular on hot days.
Sprats in oil
This product appeared in the USSR thanks to Baltic fishermen. It has become an essential part of any holiday table.
"Three Elephants" tea
This was one of the most popular types of drink at the time. It was produced in India exclusively for export to the USSR. It had a rather rich taste and strength and became a symbol of Soviet life.
Hercules
Hercules oatmeal became an obligatory part of the traditional Soviet breakfast. It was affordable for almost all segments of the population. Oatmeal was cooked in water or milk with sugar or jam.
Baikal water
This is a unique Soviet drink that was created as an alternative to Western carbonated beverages. It contained natural herbs, roots, and even essential oils. The producers positioned this drink as a natural and healthy product, thus emphasizing their concern for the population.
Birch sap
This is a natural and very popular drink in the former Soviet Union. It was harvested in the spring and bottled in three-liter jars. Birch sap on empty store shelves became a hallmark of the beginning of the collapse of the USSR.