Rationing is the controlled distribution of goods due to their scarcity. In World War II the rationing began in 1942 when the U.S Office of Price Administration froze prices on everyday goods such as starting with sugar and coffee. Since the lack of resources was high the U.S had to synthesize new items for everyday use. Examples include synthetic fuel,rubber,and copper. Americans were even encouraged to save fat waste so that the production on ammunition would stay level, and even metals like nickel were saved and most produced pennies during the war were made from steel. The link below will give you more information about rationed items.
http://www.ameshistory.org/exhibits/ration_items.htm
http://www.ameshistory.org/exhibits/ration_items.htm