In the midst of a food crisis, the citizens of Cuba continue to receive basic staple products of very poor quality, exemplified by the rice delivered in December, which arrived late, dirty, and infested with weevils.
Recently, a neighbor from the Santo Suárez neighborhood in Havana reported in a video sent to the independent media outlet El Toque and journalist Mario J. Pentón the poor quality of rice distributed in December, a recurring issue that highlights the decline of the food distribution system on the island.
The rice, which was supposed to be delivered on time as part of the basic food basket, arrived several days late, incomplete, and of a quality that was disappointing.
In the neighbor's video, dirty rice can be seen inside an orange bag from which dozens of weevils were crawling out.
"The rice for December 2024 arrived late, incomplete, of very poor quality, dirty, and infested with weevils," the affected individual reported to elTOQUE, an independent media outlet that has documented multiple complaints of this nature in various parts of the country.
This incident is just one of many that occur throughout Cuba, where food shortages and poor distribution of basic goods increasingly impact the population, which is struggling to survive amid inflation, a lack of supplies, and the economic crisis affecting the island.
Last October, a resident of Nueva Gerona, in Isla de la Juventud, shared a video on Facebook to show the condition of the rice received in the second shipment from the El Purial warehouse, which was infested with live weevils. “Oh my God, that’s more weevil than rice,” commented one user on that post.
In the post, the neighbor described the product as "rice with meat included." The comments confirm that the distribution of rice throughout the Special Municipality had similar characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Food Crisis in Cuba
What is the current status of rice distribution in Cuba?
The rice distributed in Cuba as part of the basic food basket arrives late, dirty, and infested with weevils, reflecting the deterioration of the food distribution system on the island. Citizens have consistently reported the poor quality of the product, which has arrived delayed and in bad condition in various regions of the country.
Why are rice and other basic goods arriving late in Cuba?
The lack of domestic production and dependence on imports are the main causes of delays in the delivery of rice and other essential products in Cuba. Additionally, logistical and financial issues, along with government control over distribution, further complicate the situation.
How does the quality of rice affect the Cuban population?
The poor quality of rice severely affects the Cuban population, which is already facing a serious food crisis. The presence of weevils and dirt in the distributed rice raises concerns about the health and well-being of citizens, who rely on these staple items for their daily sustenance.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address these distribution issues?
The Cuban government has faced criticism for its lack of effective actions to address food distribution problems. Although promises of improvements have been made and logistical efforts mentioned, the situation remains critical, with products arriving late and in poor condition. Citizens continue to call for real and efficient solutions.
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