This topic is about the challenges faced by someone in North America who is trying to access black ostomy pouches, which are more readily available in the UK. The person is frustrated by the lack of availability and the barriers to obtaining these products. Here are some key points and advice related to this situation:

1. The person is looking for a black, one-piece, drainable pouch and is not interested in covers or nude/beige options.

2. Attempts to order samples from Welland Medical were unsuccessful due to the lack of distributors in the United States.

3. The use of transparent emergency pouches is causing frustration.

4. There is curiosity about why UK and European products are not approved or distributed in the US and Canada.

5. The person spent their birthday in the hospital under Covid precautions.

6. They are aware of North American gelling sachet equivalents like Parsorb, Ile-Sorb, "Pearls," and "Diamonds."

7. Salts, a UK brand, mentioned plans to launch in North America, but FDA approval is slow.

8. There is a question about the safety of sushi and salad for ostomates.

9. There is concern about liking UK samples but not being able to get insurance coverage for a Europe-only brand.

10. A U.S. stockist, Medical Monks, carries Trio accessories but not the black pouches.

11. The person is curious if the FDA has a public list of ostomy products awaiting clearance.

12. They prefer Coloplast systems, as Hollister vents tend to "balloon" too much.

Advice and insights include:

- Limited distribution of UK brands in the U.S. may be due to patent territory, regional marketing strategies, and the lengthy FDA approval process.

- To obtain these products, check Canadian medical-supply sites, as some UK items may reach Canada sooner. Trio Healthcare now makes black bags, and U.S. users should contact their usual stockist.

- Consider asking an overseas friend to request UK samples and forward them.

- For absorbent products, UK "Absorbagel" sachets are similar to U.S./Canada options like Parsorb, Ile-Sorb, Pearls, and Diamonds.

- Currently available U.S. pouch options include the Hollister New Image 18123 two-piece drainable pouch, which comes in transparent, ultra-clear, or beige.

- Users could collectively email manufacturers like Coloplast to request black pouches.

- Regarding diet, sushi is generally safe if the fish is fresh and sliced thin. Avoid or limit white-fish sushi due to parasites. Seaweed and lettuce should be cut small and chewed thoroughly. Octopus is acceptable in small, well-chewed pieces. Rotate fish to avoid mercury, and consider smaller species like sardines and anchovies. Ramen with soft veggies can be a quick, low-gas meal.