A Cuban woman named Lorena Herrera recently shared a video on Facebook, lasting just over two minutes, where she outlines a modest grocery haul and reveals that the total cost was a staggering 5,160 Cuban pesos (CUP).
The footage was captured during an extended blackout. "Today marks the fifth day without power, so we have no electricity, no water, and to top it off, no sunshine," Herrera states at the beginning of the video, before detailing each item and its price.
The shopping list starkly demonstrates the collapse of purchasing power in Cuba: 20 eggs priced at 120 pesos each; three avocados totaling 550 pesos; two bundles of string beans at 250 pesos apiece; two small portions (less than a pound) of salt amounting to 300 pesos; two pounds of flour costing 250 pesos each, summing up to 500 pesos; a can of tomato purée priced at 750 pesos; and two lollipops for 160 pesos.
Herrera highlights that flour has become the staple food for many Cuban families. "It's a quick meal and, honestly, it's the main thing people are eating here now because, well, there's simply nothing else," she explains.
"All of this, which if you see and calculate, isn't much, totaled 5,160 Cuban pesos," Herrera concludes.
The young woman remarks that with this purchase, "I spent the salary of a healthcare professional in Cuba," highlighting the severe decline in the population's buying power.
As of July 1st, the Ministry of Labor has set the base salary for a newly graduated doctor in Cuba at 7,045 CUP per month, while a first-degree specialist earns 8,500 CUP.
The 5,160 CUP spent on this shopping trip—which Herrera acknowledges isn't significant—represents nearly three-quarters of a doctor's monthly earnings.
Back in May 2026, a Cuban doctor revealed she had spent 8,760 CUP in a single day, exceeding her entire monthly salary. In August, a content creator documented a weekly grocery trip that cost 40,400 CUP.
Herrera's video garnered nearly 23,000 views and adds to a growing trend on Cuban social media, where citizens are documenting the erosion of purchasing power against the backdrop of real food prices, amidst prolonged blackouts that prevent the preservation of the scarce food available.
The Economic Struggles of Cuban Citizens
How much did Lorena Herrera spend on her grocery shopping?
Lorena Herrera spent 5,160 Cuban pesos on her grocery shopping, which she noted was not much in terms of quantity.
What is the significance of the amount spent by Herrera?
The amount spent by Herrera, 5,160 CUP, is significant because it represents nearly three-quarters of a Cuban doctor's monthly salary, highlighting the severe economic challenges faced by citizens.
What has become a staple food for many Cuban families?
Flour has become a staple food for many Cuban families due to its accessibility and the lack of other available options.