A Cuban mother took to social media to voice her discontent with the government, highlighting that the chocolate mix intended for children is devoid of sugar and milk, essential components for their diet that the regime fails to provide in the basic rationed basket. Rodríguez Abreu shared her outrage in the Facebook group "Cuban Mothers Fighters," stating that she had just purchased the "famous" chocolate mix only to find out that "it doesn't contain sugar and likely lacks milk as well."
Furthermore, she pointed out that the product, aimed at children between the ages of two and six, is priced at 25 Cuban pesos despite its obvious nutritional deficiencies. The post sparked controversy in the comments section. Akira Vargas, for instance, mentioned that the mix arrived at her store more than a week ago, "but they haven't distributed it because they don't know the price," a sentiment echoed by several other users.
Patricia Domenech Díaz also expressed her outrage, stating, "Just when I thought I had seen everything, this new disrespect towards the children of my country emerges. Every day, Cuba is painful in the eyes of its people. It's all very tough." Similarly, Kathy Figuera questioned, "Why don't they give this mix to the children and grandchildren of this country's leaders? But to the people, yes—poor children, dear God, it's better not to take it out of the store, after all, what's the point? Without milk and sugar, what am I supposed to do with it, buy what's missing to make a decent chocolate? I'd rather leave it for them to feed the pigs."
Pantoja La Peli Roja emphasized, "I was born hearing a phrase that said 'children are the hope of the world, children know how to love,' and today in Cuba, children have no hope for anything, it's horrifying!"
Last December, Cuba's Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) announced it could not ensure powdered milk for all children within the rationed family basket. According to the official statement, as an alternative, children in certain provinces would receive one kilogram of chocolate mix for breakfast, a decision that has met with strong criticism and questions regarding the government's priorities and capabilities in meeting the population's basic needs.
The anger is justified as the price of one kilogram of powdered milk in the informal market can reach up to 5,000 pesos (more than double the minimum wage), making it an unattainable luxury for the majority of Cuban households. Recently, the government has begun distributing cola syrup as a substitute for milk for children, further inciting the indignation of affected families and exposing the alarming levels of food scarcity.
Key Issues with Cuba's Nutritional Supply for Children
Why is the chocolate mix for Cuban children considered inadequate?
The chocolate mix is criticized for lacking essential ingredients like milk and sugar, which are crucial for children's nutrition.
How has the Cuban government addressed the shortage of powdered milk?
As an alternative, the government has distributed a chocolate mix and cola syrup to some provinces, but these measures have faced strong criticism from the population.
What is the financial impact of the milk scarcity on Cuban families?
The scarcity has resulted in soaring prices for powdered milk in the informal market, reaching up to 5,000 pesos, making it inaccessible for most families.