Jeniffer, a Cuban content creator known as @jeniffer_bichota_de_cuba_, recently shared a video revealing the amount she spent on her monthly grocery haul. The total came to an astonishing 90,000 Cuban pesos (CUP), a sum many view as excessive, yet indicative of the steep living costs in the country.
"Join me as I spend 90,000 Cuban pesos on my monthly food shopping. Leave a comment if you think it was a good buy or not," the influencer remarked at the start of her video, showcasing each item she purchased.
What Did Jeniffer Buy?
Here's a breakdown of what Jeniffer acquired to sustain her family through November: 10 pounds of sugar priced at 280 CUP per pound; 20 pounds of rice at 280 CUP each; 10 pounds of beans (5 red and 5 black) at 340 CUP per pound; 20 pounds of ground meat at 280 CUP per pound; 10 pounds of beef at 1,100 CUP per pound (noting that many sell it for 1,300 CUP); 3 packs of chicken at 3,800 CUP each; 10 packs of hot dogs at 480 CUP per pack; 2 bottles of oil at 960 CUP each; 12 pounds of pork at 1,100 CUP per pound; 1 can of tomato puree at 370 CUP; 30 juice boxes for the kids at 180 CUP each; 1 carton of eggs at 2,600 CUP; 4 gelatin desserts at 250 CUP each; 4 bags of chips at 280 CUP each; 2 packs of detergent at 450 CUP each; 7 tubs of ice cream at 750 CUP each; and 4 packs of hamburgers (price not recalled).
The Economic Reality
The total expenditure surpasses 90,000 CUP, equivalent to over 250 US dollars on the informal market. Jeniffer clarified that this is not a typical purchase for an average Cuban family; she was able to afford it thanks to financial support from her children's father, who resides in the United States.
The post has sparked hundreds of comments on social media, where many users agree that the figure underscores the unsustainable nature of prices in Cuba. With average monthly salaries hovering around 5,000 pesos, most Cubans cannot afford even a fraction of this shopping list without receiving remittances from abroad.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Challenges
Why are grocery prices so high in Cuba?
Grocery prices in Cuba are high due to economic challenges, limited supply, and the impact of government policies and international sanctions. The demand for basic goods often exceeds supply, driving prices up significantly.
How do most Cubans manage to buy groceries?
Many Cubans rely on remittances from family members abroad to purchase groceries. With average salaries being insufficient to cover basic needs, external financial support is often crucial.