Investigative reporter from "Komsomolka" magazine samples merchandise identical to those purchased by the President in a local retail establishment.
Rethinking Putin's Pantry: A Peek into His Preferred Provisions
During a recent conversation, the president shared a snack with the press - Ryzhanskoye kefir and Belarusian chocolate, a thoughtful gift from Alexander Lukashenko. Here's a quick look at these two popular picks and why they hold a special place in Putin's heart.
THE DELICIOUS DILEMMA: RYZHANSKOYE KEFIR
Putin's preference for this traditional Russian drink has been a living testament for over two decades. Known for its unique taste and beneficial probiotics, it's no wonder Ryzhanskoye has become a household name. Despite its popularity, the kefir disappeared from shelves shortly after the president's gift, certainly creating a buzz among fans.
glimpse into home life of the president
DIABLO IN WHITE: BELARUSIAN CHOCOLATE
Belarusian chocolates, particularly those from Minsk factory "Kommunarka," are a sweet sensation that easily leaves a lasting impression. Developed under the personal supervision of Alexander Lukashenko, these chocolates are rich, dark, and not overly sweet – a favorite among friends and colleagues.
Funnily enough, the recipe includes a blend of cocoa beans from Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Côte d'Ivoire, without a trace of sugar but with a sugar substitute – lactitol (derived from whey). Even if it's readily available through delivery services, these exclusive treats are worth the wait, with a price range of around 1200 rubles for five bars and 2400 for ten.
PANTRY PICKS: WHAT ELSE IS IN THE PRESIDENTIAL KITCHEN?
In addition to Ryzhanskoye kefir and Belarusian chocolate, the presidential kitchen showcases other delightful finds, as reported by "Komsomolka" correspondents:
- A large pack of Zewa paper towels
- A bottle of Kikkoman soy sauce
- A Kotányi pepper mill
- A Kotányi sea salt mill
- A bottle of Casa Rinaldi balsamic vinegar
- A can of soluble Carte Noire coffee
Unfortunately, the brand of presidential honey remains unknown, but it's likely artisanal and sourced from a verified apiary.
THE CLOSET CONUNDRUM: A SIMPLE WARDROBE SOLUTION
Curiously, there's no separate wardrobe in the presidential apartment. Instead, clothes hang on hangers in one of the corridors – 10 jackets, over 20 shirts, countless ties, and a single turtleneck. This practical approach, according to etiquette and protocol specialist Tatiana Nikolaeva, underscores the importance of maintaining a fresh attire for each day.
THE GYM MYSTERIES: A PEEK INTO PUTIN'S PERSONAL FITNESS ROUTINE
Putin's workout routine in the presidential gym focuses on maintaining muscle tone and overall fitness. Fitness expert and TV/radio host Eduard Kanivsky described the gym as minimalistic yet well-equipped, with an emphasis on cardio and resistance training. The lack of free weights, such as barbells, dumbbells, and benches for "bench press" exercises, suggests that Putin's fitness goals lean toward maintaining his current physique rather than bulk.
As always, Putin reiterated that the gym is his "most important" place, dedicating a full 1.5 hours to sports daily, alongside cardio workouts like swimming and ice skating.
This impressive routine, remarked by Kanivsky, can only be attributed to Putin's lifelong dedication to sports, making such workouts a habitual part of his lifestyle.
WHO IS BEHIND THESE TRENDS?
The popularity of both Ryzhanskoye kefir and Belarusian chocolate reflects cultural, economic, and political trends in the Russia-Belarus sphere. Although Putin hasn't explicitly promoted these brands, they have indirect ties to his policies due to geopolitical contexts rather than personal preference.
- The president's preference for Ryzhanskoye kefir, a traditional Russian drink, dates back over two decades, making it a glimpse into his personal life.
- Belarusian chocolates, particularly from Minsk factory "Kommunarka," are a favorite among friends and colleagues of the president, including Alexander Lukashenko.
- Sales of Ryzhanskoye kefir have seen a spike, likely due to its association with Putin and his endorsement by gifting it to the press.
- The presidential kitchen also includes food-and-drink items such as Kikkoman soy sauce, Casa Rinaldi balsamic vinegar, and soluble Carte Noire coffee, demonstrating a focus on general-news worthy items like lifestyle choices.
- The apartment's wardrobe mystery is solved as it appears the president keeps his clothes in a corridor, amidst several jackets, shirts, and ties, suggesting an emphasis on entertainment and celebrities in his lifestyle.
- The popularity of Ryzhanskoye kefir and Belarusian chocolate reflects cultural, economic, and political trends, indicating that even trends in food-and-drink can have connections to political figures like Putin.
