Last year we were excited when Casu Marzu made an appearance on US shores. According to this Smithsonian article, "maggot cheese" is never to be seen again this side of the Atlantic. Anyone willing to try this squirmy cheese?

Known as casu marzu, this cheese hails from Sardinia and is completely forbidden here. Because of its status as a traditional food, the cheese managed to maintain its legal status within the European Union. Just listen to this description of how the cheese is made and you’ll understand the ban. According to Delish, the cheese “develops when cheese fly larvae are introduced into Pecorino to promote advanced fermentation. As the larvae hatch and eat through the cheese, it softens. Diners have to dig in before the maggots die.” Poor Pecorino.

Click here to read about all five banned foods
Photo by Shardan

Here's a refresher on what the cheese looks like up close: