This is what a Cuban living on the island has for breakfast: "And I am privileged."

A young Cuban goes viral by showcasing her breakfast amid the economic crisis in Cuba, highlighting how a simple bread with oil and garlic can be considered a luxury on the island.

Breakfasting in CubaPhoto © @darlinmedina93 / TikTok

A young Cuban identified as @darlinmedina93 on TikTok has gone viral after sharing a video showing what she eats for breakfast in Cuba amid the economic crisis the country is facing.

"This is what I have for breakfast on a day living in Cuba, and believe me, I feel privileged to have this great delicacy in my home," the Cuban woman expressed as she prepared a toasted bread with oil and garlic.

In the video, which has garnered thousands of views, he also adds: “Eating bread with oil and garlic today is a blessing, because there are people who don't even have bread to eat nowadays, let alone garlic to season their food. And we eat it as if it were a delicacy.”

The young woman posted the video with the phrase: “This is what I have for breakfast in a day living in Cuba, trying to lose weight,” making an ironic comment about the food situation on the island.

His testimony has generated empathy and debate on social media, where many Cubans identify with the scarcity depicted in his video.

The video reflects the food shortages many Cuban families face daily, where even a simple bread with oil and garlic can be considered a luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions about Food Shortages in Cuba

What does the video by @darlinmedina93 reflect about the food situation in Cuba?

The video by @darlinmedina93 reflects the food shortages that many Cuban families face daily. In the video, the young woman describes how a simple breakfast of bread with oil and garlic is considered a luxury amid the economic crisis the country is experiencing, highlighting the food insecurity on the island.

Why is having breakfast considered a luxury in Cuba?

In Cuba, products such as bread, oil, and garlic have become luxury items due to inflation, shortages, and the de facto dollarization of the economy. Having breakfast with these essential items is a privilege for many Cubans. The scarcity and high cost of basic foods limit access to adequate nutrition for a large portion of the population.

What is the impact of the structural crisis on the food supply for Cubans?

The structural crisis in Cuba has led to a food emergency where many households must adopt unhealthy diets. According to a report, 25% of the population has gone to bed without dinner, and 72% of households have had to resort to insufficient meals. The situation is worsened by power outages and the lack of clean drinking water, which further restrict the preparation and preservation of food.

How have Cubans reacted on social media to these testimonies about food in Cuba?

Social media testimonies have generated empathy and debate among Cubans, who identify with the scarcity depicted in the videos. Many users express shock, support, or irony regarding the food situation on the island. Some criticize the official narrative, while others appreciate the honesty of content creators for showcasing the reality without embellishments.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.