A Cuban woman shows what's in her refrigerator and sparks criticism on TikTok

The video by @enifita about her refrigerator in Havana sparked criticism on TikTok for highlighting the inequalities in Cuba. Users are debating access to food and the standard of living on the island.

Cuban woman prepares to show her refrigerator (image recreated with AI)Photo © TikTok @_enifita_

The Cuban content creator @enifita has sparked a new wave of criticism on TikTok after sharing a video that reveals the inside of her refrigerator in Havana.

The content has sparked a debate about the differences in living standards in Cuba, an island marked by scarcity and inequality.

The video of a refrigerator full of food sparked controversy

In the clip, @enifita opens her refrigerator and shows the variety of products she keeps at home. The first thing that catches users’ attention is a bottle of Coca-Cola, "the favorite of capitalism" according to the influencer, and several cans of Bucanero malt, "the favorite of Cuban socialism."

The refrigerator also contains sparkling water and small bottles of guava juice, made by Cuban entrepreneurs. There is a tres leches cake and other artisanal sweets from local self-employed workers.

In the dairy and protein section, the influencer showcases different types of yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, cream cheese, and cooking cream. In the fruit section, apples stand out along with some impressive avocados. She also has lard to add depth of flavor to her favorite dishes.

There are plenty of chocolate bars, bonbons, as well as artisanal granola made in Cuba, savory crackers, lemons, wheat tortillas, and a tray full of eggs.

Critiques and social debate

The exhibition of these products has generated numerous criticisms, as many users believe they do not reflect the reality of most Cubans, who can barely access basic food items.

“She is the woman of a ñángara,” wrote someone, using the term that in Cuba is used derogatorily to refer to those who identify as militants or sympathizers of the regime, or who have access to privileges due to their connections with figures of power.

Other internet users pointed out that the variety and quantity of products in their refrigerator is unimaginable for most people in a country where thousands of families have gone months without being able to buy eggs, milk, or yogurt, and where food is scarce on a daily basis.

Responses from the influencer

Far from shying away from controversy, @enifita had already faced similar criticisms recently, when she shared a vlog about her daily routine as a mother and entrepreneur in Havana.

In that video, she showed how she started her day after restoring the electricity, tidied up her house, and prepared an order for a customer from her online store.

"I have never liked working for others, and I feel happy and grateful for this endeavor that I have built little by little," she stated, proud to be able to generate income from home.

Some users suggested that such a spacious and well-maintained home could only be obtained with foreign assistance. However, the influencer was firm: “You’ve never seen a good house in Cuba; stay tuned because I’m going to show you much more.”

He assured that there are prejudices about life on the island and that "there are many hardworking people who persevere and live decently."

Regarding remittances, she was also direct: “In these times, the family living abroad helps those remaining here less and less each day. Because things are tough over there,” making it clear that her standard of living does not depend on money sent from outside.

Finally, he defended daily effort and mindset as keys to improving quality of life: “They don’t know that many of us, instead of wasting time complaining, get to work and fight for a good life.”

The video of the refrigerator filled with food sparked a new discussion about social differences in Cuba and the stereotypes surrounding success, entrepreneurship, and access to food.

While some defend the positive attitude and effort of the content creator, others point out the increasing gap between those who can enjoy an acceptable standard of living and those who survive in conditions of poverty in the country.

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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.