Wartime Rations

Food Rationing was introduced in the United Kingdom during both World Wars in order to fairly distribute scarce food supplies.  The replica platters show the quantities of the main foods rationed each week to adults.

In the 1WW sugar was the first to be rationed in January 1918, followed a few months later by meat, butter, cheese and margarine. Ration cards were issued and everyone had to register with a local Butcher and Grocer.

During the 2WW food rationing was introduced earlier in the War. On the 8th January 1940 bacon and sugar were rationed.  By 1942 many other foodstuffs were also “on the ration”. 

These are reflected in the replica food platter with information booklet and ration card which we can supply.