First World War Rationing in the United Kingdom

a first world war government leaflet detailing consequences of breaking rationing laws.

in line business usual policy during first world war, government reluctant try control food markets. fought off efforts try introduce minimum prices in cereal production, though relenting in area of controlling of essential imports (sugar, meat, , grains). when did introduce changes, limited in effect. in 1916, became illegal consume more 2 courses while lunching in public eating place or more 3 dinner; fines introduced members of public found feeding pigeons or stray animals.

in january 1917, germany started unrestricted submarine warfare in attempt starve britain submission. meet threat food supply voluntary rationing introduced in february 1917. bread subsidised september year; prompted local authorities taking matters own hands, compulsory rationing introduced in stages between december 1917 , february 1918 britain s supply of wheat decreased 6 weeks worth. facilitate process, ration books introduced in july 1918 butter, margarine, lard, meat, , sugar. part, rationing benefited health of country. during war, average energy intake decreased 3 percent, protein intake 6 percent.