Preparing for Shortages
For this week, we will be focusing on a list of things to have on hand to prepare for shortages. This is this has been compiled in the recent revelations about tariffs and the disruptions that that will happen to the food, goods and services. This is by no means a comprehensive list. It is meant to be something to check into to see what you have and need to get or secure. Remember you will have unique needs based on your geography, infrastructure and personal needs. This list also outlines strategies for working within your community for developing strategies to support everyone’s needs during a time of crisis.
1. Long-Lasting Food Items
Focus on foods with extended shelf lives that are versatile and nutrient-dense.
Staple Foods
• Grains: Rice (white, not brown for longer storage), quinoa, oats, barley.
• Legumes: Lentils, black beans, chickpeas, split peas.
• Pasta: Dried pasta varieties.
• Flours: All-purpose, whole wheat, and specialty flours (vacuum-sealed for longevity).
Proteins
• Canned Meats: Tuna, chicken, sardines, corned beef.
• Dehydrated Meats: Beef jerky, freeze-dried chicken or pork.
• Plant-Based Proteins: Textured vegetable protein (TVP), powdered peanut butter.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds (stored in cool, dark places).
Dairy Alternatives
• Powdered milk, powdered cheese, shelf-stable almond or oat milk.
Fruits and Vegetables
• Canned Fruits and Vegetables: Peaches, tomatoes, green beans, corn.
• Dried Fruits: Raisins, cranberries, apricots.
• Freeze-Dried Options: Strawberries, blueberries, spinach, kale.
• Pickled or Fermented Foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles (for probiotics and variety).
Oils and Fats
• Coconut oil, olive oil (smaller containers to prevent spoilage), ghee (clarified butter).
Sweeteners and Condiments
• Honey (indefinite shelf life), sugar, salt, pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, hot sauce.
Comfort Foods
• Chocolate, tea, coffee (instant or freeze-dried), canned soup.
2. Goods for Crisis Preparedness
Cooking and Preservation
• Solar oven, camp stove with fuel, fire-starting tools.
• Canning supplies: Mason jars, lids, and rings.
• Dehydrator for preserving surplus foods.
Water and Hydration
• Water purification tablets, filters, and storage containers.
• Water barrels or cisterns for larger-scale storage.
• Portable water filters like LifeStraw or Berkey systems.
Household Essentials
• Cleaning supplies: Bleach, vinegar, baking soda.
• Personal hygiene: Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, menstrual products.
• First-aid kits and over-the-counter medicines (pain relievers, antihistamines, etc.).
Gardening Supplies
• Seeds: Non-GMO, heirloom varieties for vegetables, herbs, and grains.
• Tools: Spades, hoes, gloves, and watering cans.
• Soil amendments: Compost, fertilizers, mulch.
Energy and Lighting
• Batteries, solar-powered chargers, flashlights, lanterns.
• Generator with fuel or solar generator.
• Thermal blankets and sleeping bags for warmth.
Bartering and Trade
• Alcohol (small bottles), tobacco, spices, coffee, and sugar for barter.
• Silver or gold coins for alternative currency.
• Extra tools or seeds.
3. Strategies for Crisis Preparedness
Food and Water Security
• Gardening: Grow your own food to reduce dependency on supply chains.
• Community Sharing: Collaborate with neighbors for sharing resources and skills.
• Foraging Skills: Learn to identify local edible plants and mushrooms.
• Preservation: Practice canning, fermenting, freezing, and dehydrating.
Financial Planning
• Diversify Investments: Gold, silver, or cryptocurrencies to hedge against inflation.
• Cash Reserves: Keep some cash on hand in small denominations.
• Debt Reduction: Prioritize paying off debts to reduce financial stress.
• Budgeting: Focus on needs over wants and stockpile essential goods gradually.
Energy Independence
• Renewable Energy: Invest in solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable sources.
• Fuel Storage: Safely store gasoline, diesel, or propane for generators.
• Off-Grid Systems: Consider battery banks and energy-efficient appliances.
Health and Wellness
• Stockpile Medications: Request longer prescriptions for critical medications.
• Natural Remedies: Learn to use herbs and plants for basic ailments.
• Fitness: Maintain physical health to handle labor-intensive tasks if necessary.
Knowledge and Skills
• Education: Learn first aid, hunting, fishing, and basic mechanics.
• Books: Keep a library of survival guides, gardening books, and repair manuals.
• Workshops: Attend local workshops on food preservation, energy, or self-defense.
Community and Networking
• Build relationships with like-minded individuals for mutual aid.
• Join local gardening or preparedness groups.
• Share skills and knowledge to strengthen community resilience.
4. Responding to Tariffs and Economic Disruptions
• Buy Local: Support regional farmers and producers to reduce reliance on imported goods.
• Bulk Purchases: Purchase staples in bulk to save money and reduce trips.
• Alternative Goods: Identify substitutes for imported products (e.g., use local grains instead of imported rice).
• Repurpose and Reuse: Focus on upcycling and repairing goods rather than replacing them.
