The El Tigre Basic Packaging Unit, located in the Havana municipality of La Lisa (Ave. 53 and 158), is under serious allegations of unsanitary food handling and abuse of power by its director, Yuliett Curbelo Lugo. These accusations were made by an anonymous citizen fearing retaliation.
According to the complaint, which was sent to journalist Mario J. Pentón and shared on his social media platforms, the croquette dough is placed directly on the floor, and previously processed croquette boxes, damaged by power cuts, are mixed with new dough to mask bad odors and their spoiled state. The director is accused of disrespectful treatment towards staff, using phrases like “If you don’t like it, leave” and “Here, it’s my way or the highway,” behaving as if the facility were her private property.
The report highlights that workers receive lunch under deplorable conditions, while the director and her husband, who also works at the plant, enjoy a different and superior menu. They are also accused of using their positions to acquire luxuries and allow irregularities without facing consequences. Despite internal complaints, employees cannot afford to leave due to financial necessity, despite inadequate salaries.
Health Risks and Public Outrage
The products in question—croquettes and hamburger meat—are primarily consumed by impoverished families and low-income individuals, including children, heightening concerns over the reported health risks. Social media comments reveal widespread outrage, confirming that this case highlights systemic issues.
Online user Leisy Valdés stated that if anonymous complaints with evidence were addressed, "those responsible would have no choice but to do things halfway decently," but they feel untouchable. Silvia Quinta noted that these products are "not even fit for dogs," and directors would never consume them.
Systemic Hygiene Issues
Other users emphasize that unsanitary conditions are not isolated: flies, cockroaches, rats, contaminated water, and a lack of cleaning supplies are common in the production of state food. "Everything conspires to reduce the Cuban population," another commentator lamented.
Complaints about many bosses acting like "millionaires" and exercising unchecked authority are also prevalent, with the phrase "if you don’t like it, leave" becoming a national mantra. Several individuals criticize the double standards of health authorities, who impose severe fines on private businesses while ignoring conditions in state facilities.
Public Health and Economic Challenges
Yarisel Sánchez Lima described the situation as "disgusting from every angle," warning that most consumable goods available to the public are "pure waste." Elizabeth Blanco and Deysi Cobiella shared that they have chosen not to buy state-processed foods to protect their health and their families', even if it means sticking to plain boiled plantains or squash.
They argue that basic hygiene standards have been abandoned, and the only concern for management is "lining their pockets," while the public faces hunger and disease. This is not the first time reports of poor quality and hygiene in food production for ordinary Cubans have surfaced, contrasting starkly with those meant for the island's elite.
In April, Daniel Yon Aguiar, the Production Director at the Provincial Food Company in Matanzas, acknowledged public discontent over the poor quality of bread, particularly its unpleasant odor, reminiscent of cockroaches. Cubans have found everything from screws in quota bread to strange, toxic substances in children's compote distributed at stores.
Recently, Betsy Díaz Velázquez, Cuba's Minister of Domestic Trade, boasted about the production of plantain croquettes and the introduction of a "base broth" as part of the culinary alternatives, presented as "advancements" in the country's commercial network. According to statements made in July at the National Assembly of People's Power, these "initiatives" are "positive examples" of creative responses to the island's complex economic and supply situation.
The worsening food scarcity affecting the Cuban population is increasing exposure to nutritional deficiencies, impacting physical and cognitive development, and weakening immune defenses. The Food Monitor Program (FMP) warned last Monday that the diet in most households is highly repetitive, lacking in essential nutrients and fiber, and relies heavily on ultra-processed foods like minced meat and sausages rather than fresh proteins like fish or beef.
Recent reports indicate that over nine million people in Cuba cook under inadequate conditions, with limited access to fuel and basic equipment, which not only limits the variety of foods they can consume but also influences how they are prepared. Adding to this, one in four individuals admits to going to bed without dinner, illustrating how hunger has become a daily reality. These figures highlight a chronic food scarcity that directly impacts millions of families.
The situation worsens in a context many compare to the Special Period, but now with less state support, greater reliance on the informal market, and an almost symbolic rationing system.
FAQs on Food Safety and State Management in Cuba
What are the main allegations against the El Tigre Basic Packaging Unit?
The unit faces allegations of unsanitary food handling and abuse of power by its director, Yuliett Curbelo Lugo. Specifically, croquette dough is reportedly placed on the floor, and damaged boxes are reused.
How do these food safety issues impact Cuban families?
These issues primarily affect impoverished families and children, raising health concerns due to potential exposure to spoiled or contaminated food products.
What are the reported conditions in state food production facilities?
State facilities reportedly suffer from infestations of flies, cockroaches, and rats, along with contaminated water and a lack of cleaning supplies, contributing to unsanitary production conditions.