This pamphlet was produced 4 years into the Second World War. Sugar, meat, and dairy products all faced various restrictions during this time period. Food rationing began in 1942 and ended in 1947 in order to provide enough food for all people affected by the war (Florence) Canadians had to apply to receive their coupon books through the Post Office (Smith).

Food was a weapon of war, and the government’s publication of this pamphlet reflects that. During the war years, upwards of 200 cookbooks centralized around food substitutions and stretchers were published (Mosby 133).

Meat rations began with coupons that equated two pounds of meat, but there were many instances of individuals who did not need that much meat per week (Smith). Meat tokens were introduced circa 1945 (“Canada to Use Tokens in New Meat Rationing.” 18-19). People not using their coupons for fear of wasting the meat they would not use. Eight tokens equaled one coupon and they would be given out to subsidize people who did not use an entire coupon. However, this pamphlet was published two years before meat tokens were introduced. There was a demand for a guide to help Canadians make the most out of the meat they received, which was supplied by this pamphlet (Smith).