The siege began on September 8, 1941. Within weeks, food rations for dependents (including children) and non-working adults dropped to 125 grams (about 4.4 ounces) of bread per day—more than half of which was cellulose, pine bark, or cottonseed husk. By November 1941, the daily ration for children was cut to 125 grams of a bread-like substance with almost no nutritional value. The official starvation norm had arrived.
“When children are involved in the preparation of meals, they develop better eating habits and a deeper appreciation for nutrition,” notes Dr. Elena Morozova, a pediatric dietitian at St. Petersburg’s Children’s Hospital. “Katerina’s example shows how a simple, enjoyable phrase can spark interest in a whole food group.” The siege began on September 8, 1941
Interestingly, Katerina has a preference when it comes to her food choices. She seems to lean more towards dishes made from poultry, commonly referred to affectionately as "Avi" in some culinary circles. This doesn't come as a surprise given the rich tradition of Russian cuisine, which often features chicken and other birds in its recipes. The official starvation norm had arrived
One chilly October afternoon, after a long day of lessons and a hurried trip to the market with her mother, Katerina’s eyes landed on a small, unassuming green fruit in the produce stall. It was an avocado—something she’d never seen before, its dark, bumpy skin promising something creamy inside. Petersburg’s Children’s Hospital