Spanish influencer Juanjo Dalmau recently captured the challenges of purchasing milk in Cuba while attempting to assist a Cuban father in need. His video documents the journey alongside Darwin Valdés, a Cuban father, as they search through multiple stores in Havana, only to face disappointment at each turn. "Milk is nowhere to be found, it simply doesn't exist," Valdés laments, encapsulating a crisis that affects the entire island.
After visiting at least four different shops, Dalmau finally manages to secure powdered milk from a private small business, priced at 200 Cuban pesos per bag. A grateful Valdés thanks him, moved by the gesture that ensures his young daughter receives the milk.
The video quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread empathy and concern for the Cuban situation. While some users expressed fear of potential repercussions for Valdés due to his public comments, others commended Dalmau for shedding light on the daily struggles faced by Cubans. "Thank you for showing the reality we endure under the communist dictatorship," one comment read, while another warned, "In Cuba, speaking against the government can have consequences."
The video ignited significant debate, with some users attributing the crisis to the embargo, while others countered, "The problem isn't the blockade, it's the regime." There were also skeptics questioning the father's need, pointing out his possessions as a sign of affluence: "That man has glasses, a watch, earrings, and a better phone than I do."
Dalmau's documented struggle is not an isolated incident. Other tourists have also reported similar challenges during their visits to the island. A Bolivian tourist highlighted the lack of public lighting in rural areas like Viñales and Varadero, while a Spanish visitor was struck by the deteriorating housing conditions in Havana.
The milk crisis in Cuba has deep roots. In April, the company Río Zaza suspended its production due to massive debts, directly impacting supplies meant for children and pregnant women. Last December, Cuba's Ministry of Internal Commerce announced the replacement of powdered milk in the basic basket with chocolate mixes, and in January, cola syrup began distribution as a substitute in several provinces.
Earlier this year, milk returned to dollarized supermarkets like the one at 3rd and 70th in Havana, yet the prices remain out of reach for those without access to foreign currency, exacerbating social inequality. A recent UNICEF report indicates that about 9% of Cuban children suffer from severe food poverty, a direct consequence of this ongoing crisis.
FAQs About the Milk Crisis in Cuba
Why is there a milk shortage in Cuba?
The milk shortage in Cuba is largely due to economic difficulties, including massive debts faced by domestic producers like Río Zaza, which halted production. Additionally, the economic policies under the communist regime have exacerbated these challenges.
How are Cubans coping with the milk crisis?
Cubans are turning to alternative products like chocolate mixes and cola syrup, as announced by the Ministry of Internal Commerce, though these are poor substitutes for milk. The crisis has forced many to rely on black market options and expensive dollarized stores.
What impact has the milk crisis had on Cuban children?
The ongoing milk shortage has led to severe food poverty among Cuban children, with a UNICEF report indicating that around 9% are affected. This shortfall in essential nutrition poses significant health risks to the younger population.