Which diet is cheaper in Egypt: Vegetarian or Omnivore?

Nowadays, due to global warming problems, more ecological movements are recommending switching to a more vegetarian diet. The main reason is that cattle raised for meat production emits a lot of methane gas, which has a more negative effect on the atmosphere than CO2. That is why most environmental activists have switched to a vegan diet, and are urging people to do the same. 

However, there are a lot of people that see this demand as unrealistic due to the high cost of vegan products. 

The question that remains: is a vegetarian diet cheaper in Egypt?

In markets, vegetables are cheaper than meat

Since we are blessed with mild temperatures throughout the year, most vegetables are grown here. That is why you will find that vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce and the like are cheaper than in other countries. They are especially cheap if you go to popular markets such as Suleiman Gohar, Meit Okba, and Al Obour. 

While a kilogram of beef can cost EGP 80-170, a kilogram of a normal type of vegetable will probably cost EGP 2-11. However, if you buy imported or organic vegetables, it will probably cost you much more.

Consuming less meat can save you some money

Protein alternatives

If you are going to adopt a vegetarian diet, then you will need to substitute the missing animal protein with something else. Most people swap animal protein for pulses such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, etc. 

They are a bit expensive as a kilogram can cost you EGP 20-40. 

Grains

To satiate hunger, grains are an essential part of a vegetarian diet since vegetables are quickly processed in the body. Grains include rice, pasta, and freekeh among others. They usually cost EGP 15-40 per kilogram.

Summary

In conclusion, consuming less meat can save you some money, especially if you avoid buying imported products or organic vegetables. If instead you commit to local vegetables and making food at home with simple ingredients, you will successfully save a good amount of money. 

However, if you swap animal products for imported products or takeout, you will hardly save any money, but you will probably end up spending more.