Food Needs Transport | 1944

Food Needs Transport: Don't Waste It, 1944, by Lewitt-Him

This striking 1944 poster by Lewitt-Him presents a surreal and memorable visual metaphor to emphasize the importance of food transportation during wartime. The image depicts a long train of sliced bread, stretching into the distance and transforming into a steam locomotive. Billowing smoke rises from the engine as it speeds along the tracks, reinforcing the idea that food must travel great distances before reaching consumers. Above, the text “FOOD NEEDS TRANSPORT” follows the perspective of the train, giving the impression that the message is moving forward with the locomotive. At the bottom, bold yellow typography states “DON’T WASTE IT,” with a small pointing hand adding emphasis to the critical message.

This poster was created as part of Britain’s World War II home front propaganda efforts, urging citizens to conserve food. With supply chains disrupted by the war and U-boats threatening imported goods, efficient transport and careful rationing were essential. The British Ministry of Food commissioned posters like this to educate the public, reinforcing the need to minimize waste so that resources could be distributed effectively.

Lewitt-Him was the design partnership of Polish-born artists Jan Le Witt (1907–1991) and George Him (1900–1982). Formed in 1933, their studio became known for bold, imaginative compositions that blended surrealism with functional design. After moving to London in 1937, they contributed significantly to wartime visual communication, producing posters for various British government ministries. Beyond their war work, they also designed children’s books and commercial advertising, influencing generations of illustrators and designers.