Does Puerto Rico Have a Good Food System?

When considering the goodness of Puerto Rico's food system, it often depends on the context and the specific aspect of the system you are examining. The island nation has a rich culinary heritage that is a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, which makes its cuisine both unique and diverse. However, the broader food system faces significant challenges.

Restaurants: A Means of Diverse Culinary Exploration

One aspect of Puerto Rico's food system that many appreciate is the variety it offers in its restaurants. Both US big food chains and local eateries with their distinctive Caribbean seasoning and spices are available, making it easy for tourists and residents to explore a wide range of flavors. Local restaurants often feature dishes such as mofongo, pastelitos, and arroz con gandules, which showcase the island's rich culinary traditions.

Farm-to-Fork Limitations: The Challenge of Local Food Production

However, when it comes to local food production, the situation looks less rosy. Approximately three-fourths (75%) of the food consumed in Puerto Rico is imported from the United States, and often at higher prices compared to what is available in the continental US. This reliance on imports raises concerns about food security, environmental impact, and economic sustainability.

A significant factor contributing to this reliance on imports is the geographical location of Puerto Rico as an island. Due to its island status, most food and goods must be transported by sea, which is already an expensive mode of transport. However, the situation gets even more complicated as Puerto Rico is required to use US Merchant Marine vessels exclusively, which are among the most expensive in the world. This further increases the cost of food, making it difficult for local farmers and producers to compete with imported goods.

Add to this the fact that the government of Puerto Rico taxes the agricultural industry heavily. Meat, dairy, and crop farmers are subjected to high taxes, which can increase the prices of local products significantly. Consequently, the cost of local produce is often higher than imported goods, many of which already come at a premium price.

Subterranean Pipe Innovation: A Bright Spot in Food Distribution

There is one notable bright spot in Puerto Rico's food system, and that is the innovative subterranean pipe system. This system delivers alcapurrias, a traditional fried or baked filled pastry, throughout the country. This efficient method of distribution ensures that fresh, authentic Puerto Rican cuisine is available in various parts of the island, highlighting a positive aspect of the food delivery system.

Despite the challenges, Puerto Rican food is generally considered to be of high quality. The cuisine in Puerto Rican restaurants is highly regarded, with dishes being served in establishments across the island and even in places like Queens, New York. When traveling or living in Puerto Rico, you can expect to enjoy a delightful and diverse array of flavors that reflect the island's culinary heritage.

Conclusion: While Puerto Rico's food system faces considerable challenges, particularly regarding local food production and the high costs associated with imports, it does have its unique features and strengths. The efforts to improve local farming and distribution, combined with the rich flavors and culinary traditions, make Puerto Rican food a notable aspect of the island's identity.