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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
Why has goat milk disappeared in Cuba?
Goat milk has disappeared in Cuba due to the economic crisis and the scarcity of basic products on the island. The lack of incentives for production, the authorities' disinterest in promoting goat farming, and the difficulties in feeding the animals have contributed to its disappearance. This adds to the widespread crisis of dairy product availability in Cuba.
What are the benefits of goat's milk in the Cuban diet?
Goat milk is valued for being easily digestible and rich in high-quality proteins. It is an ideal alternative for individuals with lactose intolerance or allergies to cow's milk protein. Additionally, its slightly alkaline pH helps reduce stomach acidity, making it a preferred option for those suffering from gastric issues.
How does the milk shortage affect the Cuban population, especially children?
The shortage of milk severely impacts children's nutrition in Cuba, leaving many children without access to an essential food. The lack of adequate milk can lead to growth issues and nutritional deficiencies in children, forcing families to seek less nutritious and more expensive alternatives in the informal market, where prices are prohibitive.
What solutions has the Cuban government proposed to address the milk crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented temporary measures such as the distribution of unprocessed milk that must be boiled to avoid health risks, but it has not provided effective structural solutions. The substitution of powdered milk with liquid milk of questionable quality and chocolate preparations has been criticized for its lack of nutritional value and effectiveness.
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