A Cuban living in Spain shared the second installment of his shopping spree at Mercadona on TikTok, revealing a list of items that speaks volumes about Cuba's ongoing crisis, perhaps more than any official report: shampoo, toothpaste, beans, powdered milk, and B-complex vitamins.
Known as @juanki160794 (Juanki1607) on TikTok, the content creator uploaded the video last Tuesday, blending humor with a sense of resignation, which resonated with his Cuban diaspora followers.
"Well, since they don't have electricity or food, at least they can wash their hair with shampoo and conditioner," he remarked while showing the first items from the bag, opting for the most affordable versions available at the supermarket.
Essential Goods for Cuban Families
Toothpaste also made the list, justified by the precarious health conditions in Cuba: "Make sure they take care of their teeth so they don’t need a dentist, because there's nothing there, and if seeing a doctor is expensive, seeing a dentist is even more so."
Semi-skimmed powdered milk was another must-have item. "This is something my mom always asks for, my people," the young man explained.
However, the product that perhaps stood out the most was a B1, B6, and B12 vitamin supplement: "The best things to take to Cuba. It contains three types of vitamins, B1, B6, and B12. It's amazing."
Beans were no exception in the shopping bag. "Right now, if you want to make congrí, you have to bring your own beans because there aren't any," he mentioned before adding some treats for the kids and a cologne for his nephews: "Let's bring a little joy to those children."
A Glimpse Into the Cuban Reality
This type of video is part of a growing trend among Cubans in Spain who shop at Mercadona to send essential goods back home, documenting their purchases on social media.
In this context, Juanki1607's suitcase—filled with shampoo, toothpaste, powdered milk, beans, vitamins, and sweets—serves as a daily snapshot of what the Cuban government fails to provide for its people.
At the end of the video, the creator invited his audience to guess how much he spent on this "simple shopping trip," leaving the receipt as a cliffhanger: "What do you think? Cheap or expensive?"
Understanding the Cuban Crisis Through Shopping Trends
Why do Cubans in Spain document their shopping trips?
Cubans in Spain often document their shopping trips to highlight the lack of basic goods in Cuba and to share their experiences with others facing similar challenges.
What items are considered essential for families in Cuba?
Essential items for families in Cuba include toiletries like shampoo and toothpaste, powdered milk, beans for traditional dishes, and vitamin supplements, which are often scarce on the island.
How does the Cuban government contribute to the shortage of goods?
The Cuban government's mismanagement and economic policies have led to widespread shortages and a lack of basic necessities, forcing citizens to rely on relatives abroad to supply these essentials.