State-owned Mipyme sells potatoes about to spoil to the population of Artemisa

The government authorized a state-owned small and medium-sized enterprise to sell nearly spoiled potatoes in Alquízar, Artemisa, after previously losing six tons to spoilage.

The government authorized the sale of potatoes that are about to spoilPhoto © Radio Artemisa

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The state-owned mipyme Alquifrex, under the Cuban regime, sold potatoes that were on the brink of spoilage to the population of Alquízar, in the province of Artemisa.

The distribution took place as an emergency measure after the company lost six tons of the tuber due to spoilage.

The information was shared on Facebook by Radio Artemisa, which indicated that Alquifrex had acquired 20 tons of potatoes in February for various purposes.

Facebook Capture / Radio Artemisa

However, it was not until May, after consultations with the municipal and provincial government, that they decided to sell part of the shipment in an attempt to prevent further losses.

During the past weekend, the company offered 60 quintals of potatoes at the Sunday fair in Plaza 4 de Abril and distributed additional quantities in Reparto Enrique Hart, the maternity home Adelaida Vidal, the nursing home Antonio "Cundo" Ortega, and the municipal health department.

According to the administrator of the entity, Yemilka Hernández Álvarez, the population was alerted to the urgency of quickly consuming the product due to its advanced state of ripeness.

Only 33 quintals were sold on Saturday, and the rest was delivered the following day.

The area manager, Argemis Kindelán Berroa, stated that they acted "in accordance with our commercial competencies as an economic actor," emphasizing the official nature of the management.

A government that prides itself on being humanistic and working for the people daily shows how its inefficiency, its disdain for citizens' dignity, and its absolute control over resources directly affect those it claims to protect.

The case of the state-owned mipyme Alquifrex, which sold potatoes on the verge of decay to the inhabitants of Alquízar, in Artemisa, is not an isolated incident.

This type of decision, made by Cuban official authorities due to inefficiency in food management and conservation, has been reported on multiple occasions.

In Santiago de Cuba, for instance, reports emerged of the sale of spoiled baby food intended for children, an incident that generated outrage among parents and health professionals, who warned about the risks of consuming visibly spoiled products.

In Havana, a store also refused to remove a damaged item from its offerings, ignoring consumer complaints.

The establishment's refusal reflected a recurring attitude of indifference towards the food safety of the population, which is forced to purchase products in poor conditions due to a lack of alternatives.

Another serious case was reported in Sancti Spíritus, where a citizen denounced the poor quality of the yogurt distributed to the population, once again highlighting the lack of quality control mechanisms within the state distribution system.

Frequently Asked Questions about Potato Distribution in Artemisa and the Food Crisis in Cuba

Why did the state-owned mipyme Alquifrex sell damaged potatoes in Artemisa?

The state-owned mipyme Alquifrex sold potatoes on the verge of deterioration as an emergency measure after losing six tons of the tuber due to spoilage. This sale took place in an effort to prevent further losses and was conducted following consultations with the municipal and provincial government.

What measures are being taken in Artemisa due to the wheat flour crisis?

In Artemisa, regulated bread is sold on alternate days and is made with mixtures of sweet potato, cassava, and pumpkin to stretch the limited flour available. Additionally, agreements have been signed with private entities to import small quantities of the product and keep the service running.

What is the current situation of potato distribution in Cuba?

The distribution of potatoes in Cuba is characterized by scarcity, rationing, and disorganization. In several provinces, potatoes are sold in minimal quantities, and their distribution is subject to irregular availability, leading to long lines and dissatisfaction among the population.

How is the food crisis in Cuba affecting the population?

The food crisis in Cuba is severely impacting the daily lives of the population, with extreme rationing of basic products such as bread and potatoes. Inefficiency and government policies have worsened the situation, leaving many families in a state of uncertainty and constant discomfort.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.