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The end of the year is approaching in Cuba, and many families still have no idea what they will put on the table for the dinner on December 31st.
Pork, which years ago was the "star" in homes during festive occasions, now shows astronomical prices in agricultural markets and stores that accept foreign currency, making it unaffordable for a large part of the population.
The agricultural market at 9na y F, in El Vedado, Havana, shared this week's price list from the El Pollito butcher shop, where imported boneless pork leg is priced at 1,000 pesos per pound, and smoked pork loin costs 1,100 pesos.
In the same market, La Carnicería del Cancha also offers other meat products that are truly luxurious, such as a pound of beef liver for 490 pesos, a pound of pork ribs for 740 pesos, and a pound of turkey breast for 1,200 pesos.
An item like chicken picadillo, which used to be a "lifesaver" in many homes, is now being sold for 310 pesos per pound.
With these prices, a medium pork leg or shoulder, which is the typical dish served in Cuba during these celebrations, can cost around 12,000 pesos (about 70 MLC in state stores).
This photo taken in a MLC store shows the price of pork leg: nearly 10 dollars per kilo.
Cuban expatriates who use online stores to purchase food for their loved ones on the Island should be aware that the price of pork leg is similar to or slightly higher (according to the company) than that of stores in MLC, plus shipping costs.
Last Friday, CiberCuba gathered information on food prices at various agromarkets in Havana and compiled a table of the average values.
The prices of pork were already exorbitant: a pound of pork shoulder was priced between 1,100 and 1,300 pesos; steak was at 1,500 pesos, and leg meat ranged from 780 to 800 pesos. These were already extremely high values that, to make matters worse, have increased over the past five days.
But this has not only happened with pork. Chicken, which used to be a more economical option, has also seen a significant increase in price.
A 2.5-kilogram package costs around 5,200 pesos. Chicken breasts reach 5,000 pesos per kilogram, while a whole boneless chicken is priced at 4,800 pesos each.
Even eggs, once considered an affordable option, are now sold for 3,300 pesos per dozen (at 110 pesos each).
Frequently Asked Questions about the Price and Accessibility of Pork in Cuba
How much does pork cost in Havana?
Pork in Havana has exorbitant prices, with pork shoulder ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 pesos, and boneless leg reaching up to 1,000 pesos per pound. These prices are unaffordable for most Cuban families due to inflation and low purchasing power.
Why is pork so expensive in Cuba?
Pork is expensive in Cuba due to a pork production crisis caused by shortages of inputs like corn and soy, a lack of medications, and bureaucratic barriers. This has resulted in insufficient production to meet demand, driving up prices.
How does the pork crisis affect Cuban families?
The pork crisis is severely impacting Cuban families, especially during festivities like New Year's, where this food is traditional. High prices make it impossible for many families to include pork in their diet, affecting their access to essential sources of protein.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the pork meat crisis?
The Cuban government has pledged to increase pork production by establishing multiplier centers and using liquid feeds. However, these measures have not been effective due to a lack of funding and the bureaucracy that hampers the delivery of resources to farmers.
What alternatives do Cubans have in light of the high prices of pork?
The alternatives are limited, with chicken also experiencing a significant price increase. Many families are choosing to reduce their meat consumption or look for more affordable protein sources, although the supply is scarce and quality is often low.
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