Goat's milk, another vanished food in Cuba

Goat milk has been a part of the dietary tradition in various regions of the world, and particularly in Cuba, where its consumption played a fundamental role in the nutrition of many families, especially in rural areas.

This food, known for its health benefits, has gradually disappeared from the Cuban landscape, adding to the long list of products that are now inaccessible to the population.

Goat's milk: A food of great nutritional value

Goat's milk is widely recognized for its ease of digestion and its richness in high-quality proteins. Its composition makes it an ideal alternative for people with lactose intolerance or allergies to cow's milk protein.

Additionally, its slightly alkaline pH helps to reduce stomach acidity, making it a preferred choice for those suffering from gastric issues.

In the past, especially before the widespread use of refrigerators and cold chain logistics, goat's milk was an effective solution to ensure a supply of fresh milk.

In many communities, the practice of raising goats at home and consuming their milk was common. In some cases, children even nursed directly from the animal's udder, a custom that may seem unusual today but was practiced out of necessity and practicality.

Another dairy product on the verge of extinction in Cuba

Currently, the economic crisis and the shortage of basic products on the island have drastically reduced the availability of goat and cow milk.

The difficulties in obtaining food for animals, the lack of incentives for production, and the authorities' disinterest in promoting goat farming have caused this product to virtually disappear from the daily consumption of Cubans.

Testimonies on social media reflect the impact of this situation. Many users nostalgically recall how goat milk was essential in their childhood and health.

Some say that doctors recommended it as an alternative to cow's milk, while others emphasize its role in the diets of children who could not tolerate other types of milk.

However, the current reality is different: goats, like cows, goats, and other sources of dairy, are becoming increasingly difficult to find in Cuba.

Origins of the goat tradition in Cuba

The consumption of goat milk on the island has historical roots that date back to the arrival of Canary Island emigrants, who brought with them the tradition of raising these animals and consuming both their milk and meat.

In the Canary Islands, goat and sheep farming has been an ancestral practice, and the islanders who settled in Cuba brought these traditions with them, particularly in the rural areas where cow's milk production was not viable.

The stories in the publication "CUBA in Memory" reflect how this practice was part of the daily life of Cubans until just a few decades ago.

In some families, goat's milk was not only an essential food but also an indispensable resource in times of scarcity.

The story of Cubans who grew up with this food, of parents who regarded it as a nutritional treasure, and of generations who attest to its benefits, contrasts sharply with the harsh reality of its disappearance in present-day Cuba.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Milk Crisis in Cuba and the Disappearance of Goat Milk