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The Provincial Food Company in Matanzas reported this Monday that the production of bread intended for the basic basket and other social consumption is affected by the lack of wheat flour supply, marking yet another instance of the regime's inability to ensure food for the people.
In its official statement, the entity explained that as an “alternative” they are producing 120-gram bread made from Mipymes flour, priced at 65 pesos, available in all municipalities, but certainly not accessible to all families.
Additionally, in the provincial capital, a package of cookies is distributed per household, at a cost of 850 pesos, another option promoted as an "alternative."
The UEB Cubana del Pan, according to the announcement, maintains its production, although it is unable to meet the demand associated with the regulated basic basket.
The measure, presented as a temporary solution, has caused dissatisfaction among the people of Matanzas, who are facing increasingly high prices to access essential goods.
Roberto Rebelde expressed his frustration: “The impact of the lack of integrity among the executives and the so-called leaders is what most affects the people in all aspects of our social life.”
He also added: “They should be ashamed that they can't even guarantee us a decent and quality piece of bread, not to mention a simple glass of milk.”
Along the same lines, Luis Yudier Gutiérrez Martínez commented: “A total disrespect, yes, there is bread for 65 pesos and a package of cookies for 850 pesos, how far are they going to go with their disrespect?”
“It is a disrespectful alternative to sell a package of cookies for 850 pesos, and can retirees purchase it and other people with low purchasing power like the majority of the population?” stated Cary Díaz Fariñas, deeming the situation “a shame.”
As the subsidized bread disappears, families must turn to much more expensive alternatives, which deepens discontent and the impact of inflation in their daily lives.
The bread crisis in Cuba is not limited to Matanzas. In Santiago de Cuba, consumers reported that stores are compensating for the lack of flour with offers of extenders for ground beef, a measure that has caused dissatisfaction as it highlights the official inability to guarantee basic food supplies.
In other provinces, the situation is similar. In Ciego de Ávila, regulated bread began to be sold on alternate days, a shift that caused long lines and increased public discontent regarding the deterioration of the basic food basket.
Even the authorities have resorted to price increases. In Guantánamo, the government imposed new prices on bread, making a product that just recently was part of the most affordable daily diet more expensive.
The same logic was applied in Artemisa, where regulated bread was rationed on alternate days as a supposed strategy to "stretch" the supply of flour, although in practice it meant more shortages for families.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bread Supply Crisis in Matanzas, Cuba
Why is there a shortage of bread in Matanzas?
The scarcity of bread in Matanzas is primarily due to the lack of wheat flour supply, which has impacted the production intended for the basic basket and other social consumption. This situation is a reflection of the Cuban regime's inability to guarantee basic foodstuffs to the population.
What are the alternatives provided in response to the lack of bread in Matanzas?
As alternatives, 120-gram bread made with flour sourced from Mipymes is being produced at a price of 65 pesos. Additionally, a package of cookies is offered per household at a cost of 850 pesos. These solutions have been criticized for their high cost and for not being accessible to all families.
How has the population of Matanzas reacted to the bread shortage?
The population of Matanzas has expressed its discontent over the lack of bread and the expensive alternatives offered. Citizens like Roberto Rebelde and Cary Díaz Fariñas have voiced their frustration and dissatisfaction, labeling the measures as disrespectful and shameful, especially for those with low purchasing power.
What solutions has the Cuban government implemented in other provinces regarding the shortage of flour?
In other provinces, the Cuban government has implemented various measures such as the production of bread with mixtures of sweet potato, cassava, and pumpkin, and limited distribution to certain groups such as children under 13 and social institutions. However, these solutions have not resolved the crisis and have created inequality in access to bread.
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