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The crisis in pork production in Cuba is severe, reflecting a lack of transparency in the state's statistical data and exposing the government's ineffectiveness.
The high price of meat continues to take a toll on the wallets of Cubans, particularly making it unaffordable for retirees. Dulce Véliz Dagnery, a pensioner from Santiago de Cuba, expressed her frustration on this issue to Granma, noting that "cracklings are part of the past."
The woman from Santiago, like many in her community, longs for the days when she could "at least taste a little piece of macho," referring to the pork, which is called that in the eastern region.
Pork, a staple in the Cuban diet, has become an unattainable luxury amid the economic crisis the country is experiencing.
Authorities insist that prices remain at "more than 600 pesos per pound of pork," but reality tells a different story. A pound of pork steak exceeds 1,400 pesos in the informal market.
There is a disconnect between the official data and the harsh reality faced by the people. Authorities promise to boost meat production with innovative initiatives, yet productivity levels are plummeting across all areas of livestock farming.
The creation of multiplier centers, the use of liquid feed, and the integration of producers are promising measures that have yet to be realized in tangible results.
The current monthly production remains well below the 17,000 tons needed to meet demand. The government attributes this to a shortage of supplies such as corn and soy, as well as a lack of medicines; however, there are other obstacles affecting livestock farmers, including bureaucratic barriers.
Meanwhile, Cubans are facing exorbitant prices and witnessing the disappearance of an essential culinary tradition. Almost no one can afford roasted pork for the New Year anymore.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pork Crisis in Cuba
Why is pork unattainable in Cuba?
Pork has become a luxury due to its high price, which exceeds 1,000 pesos per pound in the informal market. This price is unattainable for most Cubans, especially retirees, due to the economic crisis and the government's ineffectiveness in increasing pork production.
What are the causes of the pork crisis in Cuba?
The swine crisis in Cuba is caused by a lack of inputs such as corn and soy, a shortage of medicines, and the bureaucratic hurdles faced by producers. These challenges have driven pork production to historic lows, severely impacting the availability of pork in the country.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the pork crisis?
The government has promised to increase production by establishing multiplier centers and utilizing liquid feed. However, these measures have not yielded tangible results due to a lack of funding and bureaucracy that hinders the delivery of resources to farmers.
How does the pork crisis affect the Cuban diet?
Pork is a staple food in the Cuban diet, and its scarcity has turned traditional dishes like chicharrones into distant memories. The lack of pork reflects a food crisis that affects the population, limiting their access to essential protein sources.
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