When the USA joined the Second World War, the government found it necessary to follow Britain's example and ration food, gas, and clothing. In the spring of 1942 Americans were asked to conserve on everything. With not a single person unaffected by the war, rationing meant sacrifices for all.
 
In preparation for point rationing, Catherine M. Rooney, 6th grade teacher at the Murch Elementary School, Washington, D.C., explains to her pupils how to use war ration book two when shopping for processed foods.
 
'Blue Stamp' rationing, as shown on the poster, covered canned, bottled, frozen fruits and vegetables, plus juices and dry beans, and such processed foods as soups, baby food and ketchup. Ration stamps became a kind of currency with each family being issued a 'War Ration Book.'
 
Original image Palmer, Alfred T., photographer
United States. Office of War Information.
 
High quality glossy print. Frame not included. Depending on size chosen, some parts of image shown may be cropped.

© Colourised by Tom Marshall (PhotograFix).  All Rights Reserved.