How did total war lead to rationing?

It meant devoting essential goods to the war effort, leaving less for those at home.
The populace willingly gave what they had to the war effort.
An increase in the prisoner-of-war population meant that quality goods were scarce.

Question

How did total war lead to rationing? 

It meant devoting essential goods to the war effort, leaving less for those at home.
The populace willingly gave what they had to the war effort.
An increase in the prisoner-of-war population meant that quality goods were scarce.

anonymous · Answer

The first answer is correct, although it definitely simplifies the issue quite a bit.

anonymous · Answer

Thank you!