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There are many of prepper supplies that you know you need and that you probably already have. But there are some important items that you are probably missing. It took me a long time in my years of prepping to realize their value and I see new and even experienced preppers not considering these supplies. Rather watch than read? Here’s my video.

In todays video we are going beyond beans, bullets, and bandages to explore some of the more under-appreciated overlooked uncommon supplies that every prepper should have stocked.

Important to note, these are items for a LONG-TERM collapse. Im not going to cover anything that you need for a short-term power outage or natural disaster type of situation. Im talking about items to stock for an extended crisis. An apocalypse. Doomsday. Life after SHTF will be difficult, but it will be even more difficult without the right prepper supplies. 5 Common Uncommons

Now I want to touch on what Im NOT going to list as the most overlooked prepper supplies. I call these Common Uncommons. By that I mean, theyre items beyond beans, bullets, and bandages, but theyve been covered enough times by others who say dont forget about this that theyre now common uncommon items if that makes sense.

There are what I consider to be 5 common uncommons. 1 – Sanitary Napkins

The first is sanitary napkins, or menstrual pads. This has been discussed to death. Many men say to stock them because you can also use them for stopping bleeding from gunshot wounds and the like something that has been widely debunked in the medical community I might add.

As for women, they already know they need to stock pads. In fact, there have even been books published on this topic. See Period Prepper if you want to learn more. 2 – Entertainment

The second is board games or other means of entertainment. This has been discussed at length. But if you dont have any form of entertainment that doesnt include a game controller or handheld electronic device, get some now, get a deck of cards at a minimum. Playing video games in the wasteland won’t be an option. Got other means of entertainment?

Youll be busy but youll also have down time, and youll need to keep the mental post-collapse demons at bay. Youll only be able to clean that AR15 so many times.

Incidentally, see my list of the best survival board games if you want to keep with the theme. 3 – Toilet Paper

The third is toilet paper. Years ago, when prepping was still fringe, everyone kept saying dont forget the TP. If we learned anything from the COVID fallout is that you should stock toilet paper. Remember all the toilet paper memes? They were so good. Obviously, if its doomsday, eventually the TP will run out, but there are ways around that. 4 – Condoms

The 4th common uncommon is condoms. STDs, birth control, filling them with water to throw at your buddies. Whatever. Its been discussed in prepping circles as a forgotten item forever. A common uncommon. 5 – Can Opener

Last thing not making the list is a can opener. If I had a dollar for every time a prepper advised dont forget a can opener Id trade all those dollars in for stacks of silver coins. We got it, stock a can opener. Uncommon Prepper Supplies List

Now imagine it’s a post-collapse world and you need to go raiding for supplies because failed to stock these uncommon prepper supplies. There is what appears to be an abandoned 12-unit apartment building that you can raid.

Were now in the post-apocalyptic world and youre going raiding into the apartment building. Inside unit #1 you find #1 – Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil. It can be used for much more than just wrapping leftovers from dinner. Heat Retention: In cold environments, placing aluminum foil behind a heat source like a fire can reflect heat back towards you, intensifying its effects and making a shelter much warmer. Cooking: Aluminum foil can be fashioned into makeshift pots, pans, or grilling surfaces. Wrap food in it and place it near coals or on top of a flame for a quick and clean cooking method. You can also use it to make an improvised solar oven. Signaling: In a world where electronic communication might be down, visibility becomes crucial. The reflective surface of aluminum foil can be used to signal for help or to get someone’s attention from a distance during the day. Protection: Electronics might become rare treasures. Wrapping them in layers of aluminum foil can act as a rudimentary Faraday cage, potentially protecting them from electromagnetic pulses (EMPs). Just know that building a Faraday cage requires more than just aluminum foil, a topic for another day. Fishing: Small strips of aluminum foil can be attached to fishing hooks as lures, reflecting light and attracting fish. Communication: You can also wrap aluminum foil around radio antennas to extend their reach and enable better reception. Radio will be a key component to post-collapse communications. Sale Reynolds Wrap Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil, 130 Square Feet HEAVY DUTY REYNOLDS FOILThis package contains one Reynolds Wrap heavy duty foil roll measuring 130 feet long by 12 inches wide (130 square feet total)#1 BRAND OF ALUMINUM FOILBacked by over 70 years of quality & strength, Reynolds Foil is the go-to foil for home and professional cooks seeking tools for easy prep, cooking and cleanup $11.99 Buy on Amazon

Using it carefully, and buying the heavy-duty stuff, you can sometimes use it repeatedly. Then, when its completely unusable, crinkle it up and use it to scrape your cooking grates clean, because youll be doing a lot of over-the-fire cooking after the apocalypse.

Bonus whats the shelf life of aluminum foil? Forever. Oh, and dont forget tinfoil hats!

Inside unit #2 we have #2 – Multi-vitamins

In a world forever changed, where once-plentiful resources are now scarce, nutrition becomes a prime concern. The vast supply chains, agriculture sectors, and food variety we once knew might be severely limited or nonexistent. Enter the importance of multi-vitamins in your stock of prepper supplies. Balanced Nutrition: In an environment where a diverse and balanced diet might be hard to come by multi-vitamins can fill in the nutritional gaps, ensuring that our bodies get the essential vitamins and minerals they need to function optimally.

You can kill as many squirrels as you want, but are you going to get all of the nutritional needs you have from squirrel meat? No! Don’t get scurvy after a collapse. Get multi-vitamins Disease Prevention: A weakened body due to lack of essential nutrients is more susceptible to illnesses. Multi-vitamins can help bolster the immune system and reduce the risk of nutrient-deficiency diseases.

Scurvy anyone? It happens from a lack of vitamin C. It happened to people on the Mayflower. Learn from their mistakes. Energy and Stamina: Surviving in a post-apocalyptic world would require physical and mental endurance. Multi-vitamins can support metabolic processes, ensuring that our bodies convert food into energy more efficiently. Mental Health and Clarity: A lack of certain vitamins, such as B-vitamins, can impact brain function and mood. By ensuring a continuous supply of these vital nutrients, multi-vitamins can aid in maintaining mental clarity and emotional stability in challenging times.

Your mind is your most valuable asset in a collapse. Keep it sharp. Bartering: In a scenario where currency loses its value, essential items become the new ‘gold.’ Multi-vitamins, with their potential to maintain health, can be highly sought after for trade. As I mentioned, more on bartering toward the end of this vieo. Conservation of Food: If multi-vitamins can provide a portion of our daily nutritional needs, there may be less pressure to find or consume vast amounts of varied foods. This can aid in conserving limited food resources. Sale Nature Made Multivitamin Tablets with Iron, Multivitamin for Women and Men for Daily Nutritional Support, 130 Tablets, 130 Day Supply Nutritional support supplement: contains one 130 count bottle of Nature Made Multivitamin Tablets with Iron for a 130-day supplyDaily multivitamin with Iron that provides immune support, muscle support, bone support, and energy metabolism support(1) $12.46 Buy on Amazon

While the world around us might change, our bodies’ basic needs do not. Multi-vitamins, though small, encapsulate the essence of comprehensive nutrition, making them indispensable tools for long-term survival in a new world.”

Multi-vitamins typically have a two-year shelf life. Rotate stock.

Inside unit #3 #3 – Quality Socks Trust me on this one – you don’t have enough quality socks to wander the wasteland.

Most people hate getting socks for Christmas. After the apocalypse, everyone will love getting socks.

Look at history to understand the importance of a dry pair of socks. Historical Significance: During the World Wars, a soldier’s feet were his most valuable asset. Trench foot, a debilitating condition caused by prolonged exposure to damp, cold, and unsanitary conditions, afflicted many soldiers. Commanders knew the importance of dry socks, and there were instances where they were as valued as food rations or ammunition. Soldiers were often advised to carry an extra pair to ensure they could change into dry socks, reducing the risk of foot ailments. Temperature Regulation: Socks, especially those made of wool or specialized blends, can help regulate body temperature. In cold climates, they prevent heat loss, and in warmer conditions, they can wick away sweat, keeping feet cooler and reducing the risk of blisters. Protection: Beyond comfort, quality socks provide a protective barrier against cuts, blisters, and infections, especially when one might be on the move or traversing rough terrains consistently. Mental Comfort: There’s an undeniable psychological boost in having warm, dry feet. In stressful situations, even a small comfort like changing into a clean pair of socks can uplift spirits and morale. Versatility: Beyond their primary use, socks can serve multiple purposes. They can be used as makeshift gloves, a storage pouch, or even as a pre-filter for water before purifying it. You can even fill them with your silver coins to beat your enemies into submission. Soldiers know the importance of dry socks. Do you?

Socks, by the way, are also a hot item in homeless shelters. Hikers love warm socks, hunters love them, and the homeless.

This doesnt have to be wasted money buying extra socks. Assuming your feet are done growing, you can just buy extra socks and sock them away. When the socks youre wearing now have reached the end of their life, just grab a stored pair and replace the one you took. Darn Tough Men’s Hiker Midweight Micro Crew Sock (Style 1466) – Olive, XX-Large Midweight with Cushion – A warm and extremely comfortable choice when conditions demand it, this fine gauge knitted sock provides mid-level cushion density under your foot. True Seamless technology allows for an undetectable seam fusion for an ultra-smooth, invisible feel.Micro Crew Height – A shorter, more concise take on the traditional crew height. Peeks just above the top of a standard hiking boot. $24.95 Buy on Amazon

Its called rotating sock. (Like that little play on words there?) Of course, after the apocalypse, when your socks have holes in them, youll need to do some mending, which brings me to the supplies behind unit #4 #4 – Sewing Kit

Is grandma going to be around to mend your clothes well into the collapse. Probably not.

Today, where fast fashion and disposable clothing have become the norm, the art of mending and sewing seems like a relic of the past. As we look to a potentially challenging future, the age-old sewing kit emerges once again as an indispensable tool. Historical Resonance: Before the era of mass production, garments were cherished possessions. Families would hand down clothing from one generation to the next. It wasn’t uncommon for a single dress or shirt to be altered and mended multiple times, serving different members of a family across years, even decades. The sewing kit was the heart of such transformations and repairs. Economic Efficiency: In a post-apocalyptic scenario, resources will be scarce. The ability to mend and repurpose clothing using a sewing kit will not only ensure personal comfort but also extend the lifespan of valuable clothing items, conserving resources in the long run. Versatility: Beyond clothing repairs, a sewing kit can be handy for patching up tents, backpacks, or even stitching wounds in emergencies. The needle and thread have uses that go beyond just fabric. Even Rambo used a needle and thread to sew up his wounds. Empowerment and Creativity: Knowing how to sew can empower individuals to create from scratch. Whether it’s fashioning a makeshift fishing net, crafting a pouch, or designing a new outfit from scavenged materials, sewing skills can open a plethora of possibilities. JUNING Sewing Kit with Case Portable Sewing Supplies for Home Traveler, Adults, Beginner, Emergency, Kids Contains Thread, Scissors, Needles, Measure etc All You Need in Sewing – The kit contains all the necessary tools that are required for performing basic repairs, be it a needles, threads, scissors, buttons, threader tools, seam ripper and all sewing tools.Smart and Compact – The straps holding the spools and tools in their places, which makes you easily to find it out and mend anything you want without any worry to lose it in your bag, purse, drawer or anywhere! $8.99 Buy on Amazon

Live long enough after the apocalypse and fashion will re-emerge, post-apocalyptic fashion. In fact, this is already a thing today. See for example Nuclear Snail Studios, Cult of Chrome, Wasteland Warriors, and Molotov Mollies.

Of course, all of those clothes will get dirty over time, which means youll need #5 – Clothes Washing Supplies

While it might seem trivial when compared to food or shelter, history and common sense remind us that clothes washing supplies are more than just a nod to cleanliness; they’re a testament to health, morale, and societal structure. Historical Context: Throughout history, communities have congregated around water sources, not just for drinking, but also for washing. From the banks of the Ganges River in India to the communal fountains of ancient Rome, public washing spaces were hubs of activity. The act of washing clothes was more than a chore; it was a social event, a ritual, and a testament to personal and community hygiene. Disease Prevention: Clean clothing reduces the risk of skin diseases, infections, and pest infestations like lice or fleas. Especially in damp or crowded conditions, as were common in military trenches or refugee camps in the past, keepingclothing clean was vital to preventing conditions like trench foot or the spread of contagions. Morale and Mental Well-being: The simple pleasure of wearing clean clothes can boost spirits. During the Great Depression, when resources were scarce, people still made efforts to wash and mend their garments, taking pride in their appearance as a semblance of normalcy and dignity amidst chaos. Resource Preservation: Clean clothes last longer. Dirt and sweat can degrade fabric fibers over time. Regular washing ensures the longevity of clothing, especially important when replacements are hard to come by.

You dont have to limit yourself to a washboard either. There are many off-grid clothes cleaning products and supplies out there.

Of course, youll also need to wash those clothes with #6 – Bars of Soap

In the aftermath of a societal collapse, the most basic amenities can often hold the most profound value. Among these, bars of soap stand out not just for the comfort and cleanliness they provide but for their vital role in ensuring health, hygiene, and well-being. Disease Prevention: History is replete with examples of how poor hygiene and sanitation have led to catastrophic epidemics. The bubonic plague of the Middle Ages, cholera outbreaks in the 19th century, and numerous other health crises were exacerbated by unsanitary conditions. Soap, with its ability to effectively remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses, becomes a frontline defense against the spread of diseases. If you have the right prepper supplies you might be able to avoid things like cholera. Skin Health: Regular use of soap prevents skin conditions like rashes, infections, and fungal diseases. In a post-apocalyptic world where medical help might be scarce, prevention is indeed better than cure. General Well-being: The act of cleaning oneself can uplift spirits and boost morale. In grim situations, the simple luxury of feeling clean and refreshed can have a profound psychological impact, providing a semblance of normalcy and dignity. Longevity and Portability: Unlike liquid soaps, bars are compact, lightweight, and have no risk of spillage. They can be easily transported and stored, making them ideal for a world on the move or one with limited storage options. Commercial bars of soap are stated to have a 23-year shelf life, meaning you can stock 2-3 years worth of bar soap and just rotate stock. Nothing goes to waste. Economic Value: In a world that shifts from digital currencies and credit cards to bartering, everyday essentials like soap can become valuable commodities for trade.

Reflecting on history, during World War I and II, soldiers in the trenches were regularly reminded of the importance of foot hygiene, with soap being an invaluable commodity. In the wake of a societal collapse, the value and versatility of a humble bar of soap cannot be overstated. It stands as a beacon of cleanliness, health, and a touchstone of civilized living.

Lets march into the next unit to scavenge #7 – Topographical Maps

Today it seems our every move is guided by the blue dot on a GPS screen. The significance of the age-old topographical map might seem antiquated. But in a post-apocalyptic scenario, where satellites might be silent and devices powerless, these detailed, physical maps are critical to navigating the wasteland. Have the topographical maps needed to wander through unknown areas? Historical Value: Before the rise of digital navigation, explorers, soldiers, and pioneers relied on topographical maps. They were the silent allies of resistance fighters navigating through unfamiliar terrains during wartime, aiding them in ambushes and stealthy escapes. Understanding the Terrain: Topographical maps provide a detailed representation of the natural and man-made features of the land. Knowing the lay of the land is crucial for identifying defensible positions, understanding water flow and sources, and finding suitable areas for shelter or cultivation. Strategic Movement: In a world where safety and secrecy might be paramount, these maps offer insights into less-traveled routes, helping to avoid potential threats or to locate strategic vantage points. Resource Identification: Certain topographical signs can indicate the presence of water, mineral deposits, or fertile soil. In a world where resources might become the difference between life and death, such knowledge is invaluable.

Maps could also help you find your way to the public library, to access plenty of #8 – Field Guides and Books

Weve become accustomed to accessing any information with just a few clicks of a mouse or keyboard. We’ve grown dependent on the digital realm to answer our queries and guide our actions. But imagine a post-apocalyptic scenario where the internet, our global repository of knowledge, becomes inaccessible. Suddenly, those physical, tangible field guides and non-fiction books on our shelves aren’t just conveniencesthey’re lifelines. Practical Self-Sufficiency: Field guides focused on local flora and fauna, edible plants, and basic survival tactics become paramount. Without online databases or search engines, knowing how to source food, identify medicinal herbs, and navigate natural terrains will be skills of immense value. Skill Acquisition: Detailed manuals on farming, carpentry, masonry, and basic engineering will be crucial. In a world where professional services are scarce, individuals will need to become jacks-of-all-trades, fixing their shelters, cultivating land, and maybe even constructing rudimentary tools and machines. Medical Knowledge: Comprehensive first-aid manuals, guides on herbal remedies, and basic medical procedure books could save lives. Without the luxury of quick online consultations or nearby medical facilities, these resources will be essential for addressing injuries, illnesses, and other health concerns. Preservation and Conservation: Books on food preservation, water purification, and sustainable living will guide survivors on how to make the most of available resources, ensuring longevity and reducing waste.

Physical books are EMP-proof. So stock up on plenty of prepper books.

They can also be used to teach you how to garden, when youll need to tap into those #9 – Heirloom Seeds

Heirloom seeds are not just tiny kernels of potential food post-collapse, but as the very foundation upon which post-apocalyptic societies can rebuild and sustain themselves. Genetic Diversity and Resilience: Unlike many modern, commercial seeds that are bred for uniformity, heirloom seeds represent a wide range of genetic diversity. This diversity equates to resilience, allowing crops to better withstand varying soil types, climatic conditions, and potential pests or diseases. True to Type: Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated, meaning they reproduce true to type generation after generation. This ensures that the tomatoes or beans you plant one year will produce seeds that give you the same quality of tomatoes or beans the following year. Nutrition and Flavor: Many enthusiasts and experts believe that heirloom vegetables and fruits often have superior flavor and nutritional profiles compared to their commercial counterparts. Economic Value: As communities start to trade and barter, seeds can become a form of currency. A reliable source of food production holds immense value in a post-collapse world.

A quick note about storing heirloom seeds.

Ensuring the viability of heirloom seeds over extended periods requires careful storage. Here’s how to safely store them for years: Dryness: Moisture is a seed’s enemy when it comes to storage. Ensure seeds are thoroughly dried before storing. Silica gel packets can be added to seed containers to absorb any residual moisture. Cool Temperatures: Seeds remain viable longer when stored in cool conditions. A basement, root cellar, or even a cool, dark closet can be ideal. For extended storage, seeds can be kept in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer Darkness: Exposure to light can degrade seeds over time. Store them in opaque containers or a dark environment to protect them from light exposure. Airtight Containers: Using airtight containers, like glass jars with rubber seals, can prevent moisture and pests from reaching the seeds. Vacuum sealing is another effective method. Labeling: Always label your seeds with the variety and date of storage. Over time, it’s easy to forget or mix up varieties. Regular Testing: Every few years, it’s a good idea to test a sample of your seeds for germination to ensure they remain viable. If you notice a significant drop in germination rates, it might be time to refresh your seed stock.

Next up is a product I am lacking in my own preps #10 – Chlorine Tablets

Make your own bleach, bleach shelf life 6-12 months, chlorine tablets about 5 years, cheaper, lighter, more compact

Chlorine tablets, commonly associated with swimming pool maintenance, will be exceptionally valuable. Their capacity to be transformed into bleach offers a lifeline in a myriad of critical situations. Water Purification: One of the most immediate and pressing concerns in any crisis scenario is access to clean, potable water. Chlorine tablets can purify water, making it safe to drink by killing harmful bacteria and viruses, thereby reducing the risk of waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Disinfection: When converted into bleach, chlorine tablets provide an effective disinfectant solution. This is crucial for cleaning wounds, sterilizing medical instruments, and ensuring the general cleanliness of living spaces, thereby reducing the risk of infections. Food Preservation: Bleach solutions, in controlled amounts, can be used to sanitize surfaces where food is prepared, as well as utensils and containers. This helps in extending the shelf life of certain foods and preventing foodborne illnesses. Laundry and Cleaning: In a post-apocalyptic setting, maintaining clean clothing and bedding isn’t just a matter of comfort but of health. A bleach solution derived from chlorine tablets can help in laundering, eliminating bacteria, mold, and other harmful pathogens from fabrics. Long Shelf Life: One of the distinct advantages of chlorine tablets over liquid bleach is their extended shelf life. Stored in a cool, dry place, they can remain effective for years, making them an ideal stockpile item for long-term preparedness. Compact and Portable: The compact nature of chlorine tablets makes them easy to store and transport, offering a concentrated source of disinfection without the bulk and potential spillage issues associated with liquid bleach. Mold and Mildew Control: In damp environments or after events like floods, mold and mildew can pose significant health risks. A bleach solution is effective in controlling their growth, ensuring safer living conditions. Sale Clorox Pool&Spa 23000CLX XtraBlue 3″ Long Lasting Chlorinating Tablet, White Controls AlgaePrevents corrosion and scale $8.48 Buy on Amazon

Now, as you progress through our post-apocalyptic apartment building, you hear raiders in the apartment next door. You need to take them out quietly. Did you stock #11 – Silent Hunting Tools

Shhhhh! In a drastically altered world where the hum of machinery and the hustle and bustle of modern life have faded, silence can be both a friend and a necessity. When it comes to procuring food, the advantage of silent hunting tools becomes evident, ensuring stealth, conservation of resources, and a minimized impact on the environment. Stealth Advantage: In a world where game might become skittish due to increased hunting pressures or where other survivors might be attracted to the noise of a gunshot, silence is paramount. Silent tools allow hunters to approach and hunt without alerting their prey or drawing unwanted attention. Ammo Conservation: Firearms, while effective, rely on ammunition which might be scarce or hard to manufacture in a post-collapse setting. Silent tools don’t have this limitation. Low Maintenance: Many silent hunting tools are simpler in design and construction, making them easier to maintain, repair, and even replicate if needed. The blowgun can be a lethal hunting tool in the right hands.

Examples of Silent Hunting Tools: Bows and Arrows: Time-tested across civilizations, the bow and arrow is an efficient hunting tool. With practice, it offers accuracy and is reusable. Different arrow tips can be crafted for various prey, from fish to large game. Crossbows: A bit more mechanical than bows, crossbows provide a balance of power and precision. They are easier to learn for those unaccustomed to traditional archery but might require more maintenance. Slingshots: Compact and lightweight, slingshots are versatile for hunting small game. With practice, they can be highly accurate. Ammo, like small stones, is abundant. Blowguns: Used by indigenous tribes for centuries, blowguns can be employed to hunt small game silently. Darts can be poisoned for larger game, but one must exercise caution and have knowledge of local flora for safe and ethical use. Traps and Snares: Passive hunting tools, traps, and snares can be set up in strategic locations to catch game. From simple snare traps to pitfall traps or fish traps in streams, these devices work silently round the clock. Throwing Sticks or Rabbit Sticks: These are curved sticks designed to be thrown at ground game, like rabbits. They’re used to stun or kill, and their design allows them to cover more ground than a straightforward projectile. Spears: A basic but effective tool for hunting, especially when used in tandem with stealth and tracking skills. They can be thrown or used in close combat. For aquatic environments, specialized variants like the trident or leisters can be used for spearfishing.

Last but not least, inside Unit 12 we have #12 – Spices

After the SPAM runs out youll be forced to cook whatever you can raise or scavenge, and youll be longing for comfort, taste, and a semblance of the life once known becomes palpable. It’s here that spices, often considered mere culinary luxuries in our present day, take on a profound significance.

If you have any doubt on the value of spices when theyre otherwise not readily available at the grocery store, just read up on the history of the spice trade. Spices are like flakes of culinary gold. Flavor Enhancement: In a post-apocalyptic world where the variety of food might be limited, spices become essential in turning mundane meals into flavorful feasts. This not only uplifts morale but can also encourage a better and more diversified intake of available nutrients. Medicinal Uses: Many spices have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. Turmeric, for instance, has anti-inflammatory benefits. Cinnamon can be beneficial for blood sugar regulation. Ginger aids digestion and combats nausea. Preservation: Before the advent of refrigeration, spices played a crucial role in preserving foods. They possess antimicrobial properties which can help prevent spoilage. For instance, salt can be used for curing, and clove oil has preservative qualities. Pest Deterrence: Some spices can act as natural deterrents for pests. For example, peppermint can repel mice and spiders, while chili powder can deter larger pests.

Storing Spices Long-Term:

To retain the potency and benefits of spices over extended periods, it’s essential to store them correctly. Cool and Dry: Heat, light, and moisture are enemies of spices. Store them in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and potency. Basements and root cellars are ideal, but even a shaded cupboad away from heat sources will do. Airtight Containers: Exposure to air can degrade the quality of spices. Once you’ve opened a packet or container, transfer the unused portion to airtight containers like glass jars with tight-sealing lids. Bulk Storage: For very long-term storage, consider purchasing spices in whole form rather than ground. Whole spices retain their flavor and potency longer. They can be ground as needed using a mortar and pestle or a hand-cranked grinder. Oxygen Absorbers: These can be added to your spice containers to prolong freshness by reducing the amount of oxygen, which can degrade spices over time. Avoiding Cross-Contamination: Ensure that you use clean, dry utensils to scoop out spices, as introducing moisture can spoil the entire batch. Regularly Check and Rotate: Like all stored goods, it’s essential to check your spices periodically for signs of spoilage and rotate them, using the oldest first and adding fresher stock to the back. Prepper Supplies Summary

Preppers often feel overwhelmed looking to complete their stock of prepper supplies. There is so much to sort through and so much to buy. Don’t get sidelined by the latest fancy, shiny objects, however. Look at your core needs after a long-term collapse. Use history as an example. Store some of these uncommon prepper supplies and you’ll be in a good position to withstand at least some of the dangers.

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Business

Apple sued by Which? over iCloud use – with potential payout for 40 million UK customers

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Apple sued by Which? over iCloud use - with potential payout for 40 million UK customers

Consumer rights group Which? is suing Apple for £3bn over the way it deploys the iCloud.

If the lawsuit succeeds, around 40 million Apple customers in the UK could be entitled to a payout.

The lawsuit claims Apple, which controls iOS operating systems, has breached UK competition law by giving its iCloud storage preferential treatment, effectively “trapping” customers with Apple devices into using it.

It also claims the company overcharged those customers by stifling competition.

The rights group alleges Apple encouraged users to sign up to iCloud for storage of photos, videos and other data while simultaneously making it difficult to use alternative providers.

Which? says Apple doesn’t allow customers to store or back-up all of their phone’s data with a third-party provider, arguing this violates competition law.

The consumer rights group says once iOS users have signed up to iCloud, they then have to pay for the service once their photos, notes, messages and other data go over the free 5GB limit.

More on Apple

“By bringing this claim, Which? is showing big corporations like Apple that they cannot rip off UK consumers without facing repercussions,” said Which?’s chief executive Anabel Hoult.

“Taking this legal action means we can help consumers to get the redress that they are owed, deter similar behaviour in the future and create a better, more competitive market.”

Apple ‘rejects’ claims and will defend itself

Apple “rejects” the idea its customers are tied to using iCloud and told Sky News it would “vigorously” defend itself.

“Apple believes in providing our customers with choices,” a spokesperson said.

“Our users are not required to use iCloud, and many rely on a wide range of third-party alternatives for data storage. In addition, we work hard to make data transfer as easy as possible – whether it’s to iCloud or another service.

“We reject any suggestion that our iCloud practices are anti-competitive and will vigorously defend against any legal claim otherwise.”

It also said nearly half of its customers don’t use iCloud and its pricing is inline with other cloud storage providers.

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How much could UK Apple customers receive if lawsuit succeeds?

The lawsuit will represent all UK Apple customers that have used iCloud services since 1 October 2015 – any that don’t want to be included will need to opt out.

However, if consumers live abroad but are otherwise eligible – for example because they lived in UK and used the iCloud but then moved away – they can also opt in.

The consumer rights group estimates that individual consumers could be owed an average of £70, depending on how long they have been paying for the services during that period.

Apple is facing a similar lawsuit in the US, where the US Department of Justice is accusing the company of locking down its iPhone ecosystem to build a monopoly.

Apple said the lawsuit is “wrong on the facts and the law” and that it will vigorously defend against it.

Read more from climate, science and tech:
The almighty row over climate cash that’s about to boil over
Oil state Azerbaijan is ‘perfectly suited’ to hosting a climate summit, says Azerbaijan

Big tech’s battles

This is the latest in a line of challenges big tech companies like Apple, Google and Samsung have faced around anti-competitive practices.

Most notably, a landmark case in the US earlier this year saw a judge rule that Google holds an illegal monopoly over the internet search market.

The company is now facing a second antitrust lawsuit, and may be forced to break up parts of its business.

Read more: Google faces threat of being broken up

FILE PHOTO: The logo for Google LLC is seen at their office in Manhattan, New York City, New York, U.S., November 17, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo
Image:
File pic: Reuters

And in December last year, a judge declared Google’s Android app store a monopoly in a case brought by a private gaming company.

“Now that five companies control the whole of the internet economy, there’s a real need for people to fight back and to really put pressure on the government,” William Fitzgerald, from tech campaigning organisation The Worker Agency, told Sky News.

William Fitzgerald at Lisbon's Web Summit, where he spoke to Sky News
Image:
William Fitzgerald at Lisbon’s Web Summit, where he spoke to Sky News

“That’s why we have governments; to hold corporations accountable, to actually enforce laws.”

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World

‘He was the light of my life and I lost him’: How a famous surgeon died in an Israeli prison after being taken from Gaza hospital

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'He was the light of my life and I lost him': How a famous surgeon died in an Israeli prison after being taken from Gaza hospital

As a famous orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Adnan Al-Bursh spent much of his career fixing broken limbs and broken bodies at Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital.

One of the best-trained doctors in the enclave, a photo showing him covered in blood in Al-Shifa’s operating theatre went viral in 2018.

When war broke out last October, he worked around the clock. Pictures stored on his mobile phone show him standing in a hole, swinging a blunt-edged shovel as the hospital descended into crisis.

It had run out of fuel, food and basic pain relief and there was no more space to store dead bodies. Dressed in hospital scrubs, Dr Al-Bursh and his colleagues dug mass graves as the sound of explosions rang out behind the hospital’s walls.

Soon after the outbreak of the conflict, the surgeon, along with his wife Yasmin, realised that their world had changed forever.

“Adnan was needed every time there was a war,” she recalled. “So, I told him, ‘get ready, there will be lots of operations, they will need your help’. He went to hospital to receive the injured and stayed for 24 hours. He did not stop.”

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB - Wife and kids
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Dr Adnan Al-Bursh’s wife and children

Dr Al-Bursh spent his days in the operating room and slept in the staff room at night.

He also kept a diary of sorts with his mobile phone, documenting the increasingly desperate scenes unfolding around him.

“Despite the pain, we are steadfast,” he said as he filmed the scene in a crowded operating theatre.

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB - Staff room
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Dr Al-Bursh and others in the staff room

Israel said the foundations of Al-Shifa were laced with tunnels where Hamas operated a ‘command-and-control centre’, something Hamas denies.

As Israeli troops advanced towards the facility, Dr Al-Bursh captured the mood inside. Another video found on his mobile phone shows a colleague in the staffroom recalling a painful conversation with his wife.

“I remember that she only asked one thing of me, what do you think it was? That request was ‘just let me see you smile’.

“Smile. It’s the first thing I want to do after this war, if God saves us.”

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB - Evacuation
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Tens of thousands of people had to evacuate the hospital

By mid-November, Al-Shifa was under siege by Israeli troops.

A week later, patients, staff and some 50,000 displaced residents sheltering in the compound were ordered to evacuate.

Dr Al-Bursh captured the scene of long columns of people walking towards southern Gaza.

But the surgeon did not follow them. Instead, he went northeast to another facility – the Indonesian Hospital – still operating in northern Gaza. What he found on his arrival horrified him.

“I was shocked by the size of the catastrophe here,” he said in a video. “There are injured people who have been waiting for their operations for more than ten days. [Their] wounds were severely infected.”

On 20 November 2023, the Indonesian Hospital was surrounded by Israeli tanks and later that evening, projectiles were fired into the second floor. At least 12 people were killed.

Dr Al-Bursh survived with minor scrapes but the front entrance of the facility was torn apart. “The destruction is everywhere,” he said in another video.

A spokesman for the IDF denied that Israeli forces were responsible.

By early December 2023, Dr Al-Bursh had moved to a small hospital, also in the north, called Al-Awda.

A series of pictures, posted on the hospital’s social media page, show him examining patients with fatigue etched on his face.

These are the last known images taken of the surgeon.

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB - Last pic
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These are the last known images taken of the surgeon at Al-Awda hospital

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB - Last pic 1
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The last images were released on hospital social media

The Israeli military surrounded the hospital on 5 December, and the staff were worried about what the soldiers would do.

Dr Al-Bursh worked at Al-Awda alongside a friend and colleague, Dr Mohammad Obeid.

Eventually, the hospital’s director told them that they would have to leave the building.

“[The director] told us that the [Israeli army] have full data of all males aged between 14 and 65 at Awda hospital,” Dr Obeid said, tearfully. “They told him that if all men do not come down… they will destroy the Awda Hospital with all the women and children in it.”

We put this allegation to the IDF but they did not respond.

The men filed out of the hospital and five, including Dr Al-Bursh, were taken away.

“A soldier came up to us and called out Dr Adnan’s name, who was sitting next to me… I felt he was in a very difficult situation. The occupation soldier took him and the treatment was very rough.”

Read more:
A timeline of events in the year since 7 October
Video of Israeli hostage released

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB - SDE TEIMAN
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The Israeli military base, Sde Teiman, where Dr Al-Bursh was taken. Pic: Breaking the Silence

In a brief statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed to Sky News that Dr Al-Bursh was detained by its personnel. On 19 December 2023, it says the surgeon was taken to an Israeli military base called Sde Teiman, which has been used for processing detainees since the early part of the war.

Allegations of physical, mental and sexual abuse are rife. A former camp inmate, Dr Khalid Hamouda, believes many of the prisoners at Sde Teiman were medical professionals.

“In the camp where I was, there were about 100 prisoners. I think at least a quarter of them were involved in healthcare. Some of them were doctors, nurses and technicians.”

Dr Hamouda was put to work by the guards at the base as their helper or ‘shawish’, and remembers being told to fetch Dr Al-Bursh at the gate. When he collected him, his fellow doctor said he had been badly beaten and felt pain all over his body.

“He thought he may have broken ribs,” Dr Hamouda said. “He was unable to even go to the toilet alone.”

Israeli soldiers stand outside Ofer military prison near Jerusalem on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. Friday marks the start of a four-day cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war, during which the Gaza militants pledged to release 50 hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean)
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Israeli soldiers stand outside Ofer military prison near Jerusalem. Pic: AP

The IDF told Sky News that after Dr Al-Bursh was processed, he left Sde Teiman on 20 December and became the “responsibility” of the Israeli Prison Service.

In April, the surgeon was taken to an incarceration facility near Jerusalem called Ofer Prison.

He died shortly after his arrival. News of the surgeon’s death was announced in a statement from two Palestinian prisoner support associations at the beginning of May. The Israelis offered no explanation or cause of death.

Sky News has spoken to people who claim to have witnessed the moments before Dr Al-Bursh’s death.

A prisoner, who says he previously knew Dr Al-Bursh in Gaza, provided details in a deposition to lawyers from the Israeli human rights organisation HaMoked.

“In mid-April 2024, Dr Adnan Al-Bursh arrived at Section 23 in Ofer Prison. The prison guards brought Dr Adnan Al-Bursh into the section in a deplorable state. He had clearly been assaulted with injuries around his body. He was naked in the lower part of his body.

“The prison guards threw him in the middle of the yard and left him there. Dr Adnan Al-Bursh was unable to stand up. One of the prisoners helped him and accompanied him to one of the rooms. A few minutes later, prisoners were heard screaming from the room they went into, declaring Dr Adnan Al-Bursh (was dead).”

SPARKS GAZA FEATURE - DR AB
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Dr Al-Bursh treating a young patient earlier in the war

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While some people might suggest that Dr Adnan Al-Bursh was a terrorist, Daqqa said: “If you want to formally answer this question, he was not charged until now. And many of these detainees are not charged from Gaza.”

In a statement to Sky News, a spokesman for the Israel Prison Service said: “IPS is a law enforcement organisation that operates according to the provisions of the law and under the supervision of the state comptroller and many other official critiques.

“All prisoners are detained according to the law. All basic rights required are fully applied by professionally trained prison guards.

“We are not aware of the claims you described and as far as we know, no such events have occurred under IPS responsibility. Nonetheless, prisoners and detainees have the right to file a complaint that will be fully examined and addressed by official authorities.”

GAZA SPARKS
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Dr Al-Bursh’s family paid tribute to him

Sky News was told by colleagues and Dr Al-Bursh’s wife Yasmin that he was in good physical condition before his arrest.

“He was the light of my life and I lost him,” Yasmin said.

Dr Al-Bursh was prepared to risk his life to save others. This story is one of a countless number, now buried under the immovable weight of Gaza’s recent past.

But Dr Al-Bursh lived and lost his life in a manner that demands acknowledgement, his friends and family members say.

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Ukrainian frontline commander warns: ‘The world is scared of Russia and losing is not only our problem’

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Ukrainian frontline commander warns: 'The world is scared of Russia and losing is not only our problem'

In the courtyard of a farmhouse now home to soldiers of the Ukrainian army’s 47th mechanised brigade, I’m introduced to a weary-looking unit by their commander Captain Oleksandr “Sasha” Shyrshyn.

We are about 10km from the border with Russia, and beyond it lies the Kursk region Ukraine invaded in the summer – and where this battalion is now fighting.

The 47th is a crack fighting assault unit.

They’ve been brought to this area from the fierce battles in the country’s eastern Donbas region to bolster Ukrainian forces already here.

War latest: Russia ready to carry out ‘massive attack’

The captain known by his men as 'Genius'
Image:
The captain known by his men as ‘Genius’

In the summer, Ukraine launched an incursion into Russian territory, in Kursk
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In the summer, Ukraine launched an incursion into Russian territory, in Kursk

Captain Shyrshyn explains that among the many shortages the military has to deal with, the lack of infantry is becoming a critical problem.

Sasha is just 30 years old, but he is worldly-wise. He used to run an organisation helping children in the country’s east before donning his uniform and going to war.

He is famous in Ukraine and is regarded as one of the country’s top field commanders, who isn’t afraid to express his views on the war and how it’s being waged.

His nom de guerre is ‘Genius’, a nickname given to him by his men.

Captain Sasha Shyrshyn and Sky News chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay
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Captain Sasha Shyrshyn and Sky News chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay

‘Don’t worry, it’s not a minefield’

Sasha invited me to see one of the American Bradley fighting vehicles his unit uses.

We walk down a muddy lane before he says it’s best to go cross-country.

“We can go that way, don’t worry it’s not a minefield,” he jokes.

He leads us across a muddy field and into a forest where the vehicle is hidden from Russian surveillance drones that try to hunt both American vehicles and commanders.

Sasha shows me a picture of the house they had been staying in only days before – it was now completely destroyed after a missile strike.

Fortunately, neither he, nor any of his men, were there at the time.

“They target commanders,” he says with a smirk.

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‘The world is scared of Russia’

It takes me a moment or two to realise we are only a few steps away from the Bradley, dug in and well hidden beneath the trees.

The disguised American Bradley vehicle hidden in the forest
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The disguised American Bradley vehicle hidden in the forest

Sasha tells me the Bradley is the finest vehicle he has ever used.

A vehicle so good, he says, it’s keeping the Ukrainian army going in the face of Russia’s overwhelming numbers of soldiers.

He explains: “Almost all our work on the battlefield is cooperation infantry with the Bradley. So we use it for evacuations, for moving people from one place to another, as well as for fire-covering.

“This vehicle is very safe and has very good characteristics.”

The American Bradley fighting vehicle that Ukrainian soldiers have found vital in their efforts
Image:
The American Bradley fighting vehicle that Ukrainian soldiers have found vital in their efforts

Billions of dollars in military aid has been given to Ukraine by the United States, and this vehicle is one of the most valuable assets the US has provided.

Ukraine is running low on men to fight, and the weaponry it has is not enough, especially if it can’t fire long-range missiles into Russia itself – which it is currently not allowed to do.

If President-elect Donald Trump cuts the supply of military aid, the Ukrainians will lose – it’s that simple.

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump gestures as he meets with House Republicans on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., November 13, 2024. REUTERS/Brian Snyder
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US President-elect Donald Trump has been clear he intends to change his nation’s policy on the war in Ukraine. Pic: Reuters

Sasha says: “We have a lack of weapons, we have a lack of artillery, we have a lack of infantry, and as the world doesn’t care about justice, and they don’t want to finish the war by our win, they are afraid of Russia.

“I’m sorry but they’re scared, they’re scared, and it’s not the right way.”

Like pretty much everyone in Ukraine, Sasha is waiting to see what the US election result will mean for his country.

He is sceptical about a deal with Russia.

“Our enemy only understands the language of power. And you cannot finish the war in 24 hours, or during the year without hard decisions, without a fight, so it’s impossible. It’s just talking without results,” he tells me.

Read more from Stuart Ramsay:
How Ukrainian units are downing Russia’s drones
Heartbreaking final moments of girl who tried to flee Gaza
Inside a brutal and deadly Mexican gang war

‘Losing will be not only our problem’

These men expect the fierce battles inside Kursk to intensify in the coming days.

Indeed, alongside the main supply route into Kursk, workers are already building new defensive positions – unfurling miles of razor wire and digging bunkers for the Ukrainian army if it finds itself in retreat.

Barbed wire rolled out in the Sumy region ahead of expected fighting
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Barbed wire rolled out in the Sumy region ahead of expected fighting

Tank traps in the Sumy region
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Tank traps in the Sumy region

Sasha and his men are realistic about support fatigue from the outside world but will keep fighting to the last if they have to.

“I understand this is only our problem, it’s only our issue, and we have to fight this battle, like we have to defend ourselves, it’s our responsibility,” Sasha said.

But he points out everyone should realise just how critical this moment in time is.

“If we look at it widely, we have to understand that us losing will be not only our problem, but it will be for all the world.”

Stuart Ramsay reports from northeastern Ukraine with camera operator Toby Nash, and producers Dominique Van Heerden, Azad Safarov, and Nick Davenport.

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