Description:
Rationing was implemented by the German government just before World War II started. During the conflict, there were occasionally food shortages and as a result, a black market emerged. However, overall supplies were sufficient, particularly when compared to the situation in certain other European nations. This was partly brought on by the Nazi government's exploitation of the occupied nations. As soon as the war ended in May 1945, widespread food shortages started to appear in Germany - especially in the cities. The repercussions of the conflict, such as the devastation of agriculture, cattle, and equipment, hindered the production of food. As 'Ostarbeiter' who had been made to work on German farms returned to their homes, labor shortages also emerged. A period of bad weather made the issue worse.