Cooking in Cuba: Amid power outages, fuel shortages and household hazards

A report by the NGO Food Monitor Program, which monitors food insecurity in Cuba, warns that cooking on the island has become yet another daily manifestation of the Cuban crisis. Gas shortages, power outages and the rising cost of other energy sources force thousands of families to improvise every day.

Gas, electricity and kerosene: Increasingly limited options

Shortages of liquefied gas, prolonged power outages, a lack of kerosene and the high cost of coal are reducing the options available for cooking. Families switch from one energy source to another depending on what they can get at any given time.

A crisis that also affects food security

The problem doesn't end in the kitchen. Power outages also compromise food refrigeration, while difficulties with cooking affect hygiene, preparation times and the regularity of meals.

Months without gas in many homes

In July 2025, CUPET once again halted the sale of LPG after meeting only 50% to 60% of projected sales.

In March 2026, Miguel Díaz-Canel acknowledged that hundreds of thousands of homes remained without gas and that in several provinces, the fuel had not been sold for months.

Electricity offers no solution either

The electricity crisis has further exacerbated the problem. On July 14, 2026, Cuba suffered the third collapse of the National Electric System in less than two weeks. Added to this is the fuel shortage: the country produces less than 40% of what it needs.

Firewood, coal and makeshift stoves

When both gas and electricity fail simultaneously, many families resort to coal, firewood, dry branches, scrap wood and makeshift stoves.

In courtyards, entryways, balconies, rooftops, and even on the street, rustic stoves appear, used for cooking or simply making coffee.

An emergency solution that carries risks

WARNING: These practices can cause fires and household accidents.

The routine use of firewood, charcoal, or kerosene under inadequate conditions also increases exposure to smoke and carbon monoxide, with potential consequences for respiratory and cardiovascular health.

The crisis does not affect everyone equally

Families who receive remittances can turn to the informal market, purchase fuel, install solar panels, or use batteries.

Those who depend solely on a salary or pension have far fewer alternatives: gathering firewood, improvising embers, or even cutting back on the number of meals.

Women, the elderly and caregivers bear much of the burden

The search for fuel, the preparation of alternative stoves and the hours spent trying to cook fall especially on women, older adults and caregivers.

The Food Monitor Program reminds us that cooking safely should not be a privilege. It is a basic prerequisite for exercising the rights to food, health and decent housing.