Why was rationing started?

Answer 1

During World War I, rationing was reduced simply because of the shortages of foodstuffs and other economic items caused by the war-effort. On both sides of the conflict, the naval and land (and even air) dimensions of the war caused normal importation and/or production of everyday items either to stop altogether or to be severely diminished, thereby causing shortages of one kind or another.

Answer 2

Rationing was started because the government did not want all the rich people to come and take all the food supplies.

Answer 3

The rationed items were resources that were needed for the war effort. If they were not rationed, they would not be available for the military effort.