Rationing

Rationing in Britain was introduced in 1940 to respond to the decrease of food imports. Food coupons were used to control food consumption. There were several disputes regarding 'cheating' to get food, even though some products like eggs, butter, and meat could be easily found in rural areas. Children's needs were taken into account, however. Luckily they were able to legally receive rare goods like orange juice and milk to help their growth. The government also allowed pregnant women to receive free milk as well, given that their family earned the minimum wage or less. Soon enough, there was a report starting to be written that gave nutritional advice. Winston Churchhill did not approve of the article, however, so it was never published. Eventually the government also began to ration clothing as well, which quickly became scarce. Towards the end of the rationing phase, the annual coupon allowance was 20, but a coat cost 18 coupons.

While rationing may seem to be a good idea from an economic point of view, it is impossible to govern the amount of food and nutrition we need as individual. People will try to get what they need, whether it is legal or not. Instead of rationing food, they should encourage cultivating food so they are not as reliant on imports. That way they will become self sustaining and the people are not as likely to become frustrated and hungry.