Amidst the malnutrition crisis faced by elderly Cubans, the regime has proposed a gradual introduction of certain food products aimed at enhancing the quality of life for this vulnerable group. On Wednesday, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz led a meeting of the governmental commission focused on Demographic Dynamics, joined by state agency representatives, the National Assembly, and provincial leaders via videoconference.
During this session, the commission on productive and technological issues unveiled their plan for dietary supplements targeting seniors. These supplements will not be universally available or distributed immediately; the government plans a "gradual" rollout to nursing homes and elder care facilities nationwide.
The Cuban Television report failed to specify the products, but images displayed during the broadcast revealed the names of the new supplements: Rice Drink, Hemolin Blood Syrup, Cookie with Turmeric, and Symbiotic Drink from Whey. Developed by the Institute of Food Industry Research (IIIA), these products utilize domestically sourced ingredients.
Social media has reacted with skepticism and criticism, particularly concerning the controversial "Hemolin Blood Syrup," whose ingredients and purpose remain undisclosed from the television broadcast.
Previous Regime Experiments in Feeding the Elderly
In other countries, rice drinks serve as a milk alternative for vegan or lactose-intolerant diets; however, it is rarely seen on Cuban tables. Due to the exorbitant rice prices, making it at home is not cost-effective.
Whey was previously used during the Special Period as a light beverage called Lactofré, which required pasteurization, sweetening, and coloring. It was consumed by school athletes and sold to seniors in certain areas like Cienfuegos.
During the Special Period, a multivitamin tablet was nearly mandatory for daily consumption, but the current regime cannot manufacture this supplement. While turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it is not commonly used in Cuba. Official media recently claimed that the country is producing turmeric for export to Italy.
This aromatic spice, highly valued in culinary circles, finds use in various dishes—none of which are Cuban. It might, however, help mask the staleness of the aged flours used in Cuban bakery products, potentially eliminating the notorious cockroach smell in cookies or bread.
Aging Population Crisis in Cuba
In the same meeting, Marrero addressed the long-delayed national census. He acknowledged it as an "indispensable tool for national leadership" amidst the ongoing crisis but did not announce a specific date for its implementation.
Official sources suggest a possible start in 2026, yet as of 2025, the regime has failed to train the necessary personnel for conducting the census. This week, trial censuses began in Santa Cruz, Mayabeque, marking what the government calls a preparatory phase.
Cuba's aging population is an increasingly severe structural issue. Experts warn that without a coherent development plan adapted to the country's demographic characteristics, the economic and social crisis could worsen in the coming years.
Monthly, the government introduces new concoctions like the “rice drink,” “cookies with turmeric,” and “banana croquettes,” yet none are sustainable or sufficient to address the deep-rooted crisis plaguing the nation.
Poverty and extreme hunger are on the rise in Cuba, driving thousands of young people to emigrate, leaving an aging population amidst scarcity and neglect.
Understanding Cuba's Nutritional Crisis and Aging Population
What are the new supplements proposed for Cuban seniors?
The proposed supplements include a Rice Drink, Hemolin Blood Syrup, Cookie with Turmeric, and a Symbiotic Drink made from Whey, developed by the Institute of Food Industry Research.
Why is there skepticism about the Hemolin Blood Syrup?
The skepticism stems from the lack of information about its composition and purpose, which were not clarified during the television broadcast.
How is the aging population impacting Cuba?
Cuba's aging population is a growing structural problem that could exacerbate the economic and social crisis without a coherent development plan tailored to the country's demographic needs.