A young Cuban woman has gained viral attention on social media by revealing what she calls a "luxury breakfast" in Cuba, consisting solely of sliced bread, avocado, and onion. The video, shared on TikTok by @sofia.gabes, highlights the dire economic situation Cubans face, even when trying to obtain basic food items.
"Today I'll show you what a rich person's breakfast looks like in Cuba," the TikToker begins, detailing the cost of each ingredient and its financial impact on the average Cuban. "The sliced bread cost 350 Cuban pesos, the avocado 500 pesos, and the onion 100 pesos. Altogether, this breakfast costs around 950 pesos, which is about a third of a state-employed professional's monthly salary," she explained.
The Harsh Economic Reality in Cuba
The video underscores the daily reality on the island, where access to food is hindered by shortages, inflation, and a de facto dollarization of the economy. "We're talking about the average Cuban, retirees, and professionals earning state salaries. Even those with private or foreign currency incomes feel the pinch of these prices," Sofía pointed out.
In the video, Sofía transforms the ingredients into a homemade guacamole served on sliced bread. She also includes natural yogurt, noting that its price exceeds 350 pesos per unit. "This is something exquisite, but not typical here in Cuba. You can't afford to waste 500 pesos," she comments as she finishes preparing the dish.
A Call for Global Perspective
In her final reflection, the young woman poses a direct question to her audience: "Tell me if in your country this breakfast would cost a similar proportion." Her post has sparked numerous comments from users expressing solidarity with the Cubans' struggle to maintain a dignified diet.
Cuba's Economic Challenges and Food Scarcity
What makes a breakfast in Cuba considered "luxurious"?
A breakfast in Cuba is deemed "luxurious" due to the high cost of basic ingredients like sliced bread, avocado, and onion, which together can cost a third of a state-employed professional's monthly salary.
How does the economic situation affect food prices in Cuba?
Food prices in Cuba are affected by shortages, inflation, and a de facto dollarization of the economy, making it difficult for average citizens to afford basic groceries.
What impact does the cost of living have on Cubans?
The high cost of living in Cuba impacts all citizens, including those earning private or foreign currency incomes, making everyday expenses like food challenging to manage.