A Cuban residing in Kentucky, known on TikTok as @blued_diamond, shared a video on the platform that sparked empathy and debate among other migrants. In it, he reflects on how the abundance of food in his new life has changed his relationship with eating. "Back in Cuba, we loved eating an apple, an orange, a tangerine... and pork every day. We got here and, incredibly, we feel disgusted. I don't even know what to eat, sir," he confessed while showing his pantry and refrigerator filled with fruits and meats that he hardly consumes.
The creator emphasized that, despite having everything he has always dreamed of, he lacks appetite: "I have apples rotting, papaya, bananas... And look, this apple is rotten. I have pork and chicken, but I don't want to think about that." He noted that often, he and his partner prefer to eat out because they don't know what to cook. "Sometimes we go to McDonald's or the Chinese buffet because we just can't stand home-cooked food. Tell me, has this happened to anyone else?"
The post triggered an avalanche of reactions in the comments. Many users resonated with her experience. "In Cuba, we dreamed of fruits, and here, I don't even look at them," wrote one user, while another added, "I was a fan of ham sandwiches in Cuba, but here I don't even want to see them." For some, the difference lies in the flavor: "Fruits and meat in Cuba had more taste. Here, no matter how much you have of everything, it's just not the same."
Others pointed out that having abundance also changes the way one relates to food. "With so much food and variety, you end up getting bored," commented one user. Meanwhile, another confessed, "My fridge is full, but I don't know what to do. Nothing appeals to me, even though I have everything."
The video also generated empathy among those living in other countries. "The same happens in Italy. The food tastes different, and I end up eating anything," shared one user, while another reflected: "It's true, we feel disgusted. I prefer to make myself a mashed banana with a fried egg; that satisfies me."
@blued_diamond's reflection resonated with many migrants who share similar experiences. "It's true, with so much food, one loses their appetite. In Cuba, we ate with gusto; here, with abundance, we don't know what to do," someone else commented. In the end, their message became a space to connect and share these common experiences among those who have left their country behind.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Experience of Cuban Migrants with Food
How does the abundance of food affect Cuban migrants in the United States?
The abundance of food in the United States can lead to a loss of appetite among some Cuban migrants, as the variety and availability contrast sharply with the scarcity experienced in Cuba. This experience evokes mixed feelings, ranging from the joy of having access to food to nostalgia for the flavors and culinary traditions of their homeland.
Why do Cuban migrants feel nostalgia when visiting supermarkets abroad?
Cuban migrants experience nostalgia when visiting supermarkets abroad due to the contrast between the abundance of products and the scarcity in Cuba. Seeing shelves full of food that were difficult to obtain in their country reminds them of past hardships and the reality that those living on the island still face.
What changes do Cubans experience in their diet when they migrate to the United States?
When emigrating to the United States, Cubans often face a change in their diet due to the availability of a wide variety of foods. However, many continue to prefer their traditional Cuban dishes, such as rice with beans and fried plantains, due to their attachment to their culinary roots.
What impact does nostalgia have on Cuban migrants living abroad?
Nostalgia has a significant impact on Cuban migrants, as they often miss the warmth of human connection and the customs of their homeland. This longing is reflected in their desire to keep Cuban culinary traditions alive and in their emotions when remembering their loved ones still in Cuba.
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