In a world where more processed, polluted and packaged food, riddled with pesticides and preservatives has continued to drive down the cost and cheapen meals, the organic industry is moving the opposite way.
Healthy food – actual organic ingredients – haven’t become more expensive, they are being perceived as expensive as junk food dominated the market.
Understanding why vegan dishes can be significantly more expensive than your average fast-food junk-food takeaway dish is key. It all comes down to the quality.
Admittedly, several years ago, many ‘specialist’ vegan goods are likely to have cost more, but this was when they were not so readily available and could only be found in specialist stores and health shops. The situation has since then changed significantly, with big-name retailers, including Monoprix here in Doha, offering numerous vegan items, including cheaper, own-brand ranges. Despite this transformation, veganism’s history of being a more niche diet has likely led to the continuing belief that it will still cost a little bit extra to follow.
For new vegans, there is a chance that your shopping bills will be a little higher when you first become vegan, as you may stock up on products like vegetables, beans, and pulses that you are likely to be eating more often. Furthermore, with plenty of processed vegan products available like vegan cheese, pies, mince, steaks, and more, new vegans may end up spending more simply by trying all these different items. As vegans get more used to their new diet, this potentially expensive ‘experimental’ period is likely to be replaced with a level of spending that is comparable to their previous outgoings.
Our mind and mentality need to shift in the way it has shifted when we’re purchasing clothing, house appliances, and cars. We see people riding the most expensive cars. Others carrying the most exotic bags, travelling around the globe, or spending on one-time experiences. Yet, when it comes to food, many questions come in mind. In the same way designer bags are considered an ‘investment’ in a quality product, we need to realise that organic food is perhaps the most important ‘investment’ – the investment in ourselves.
Yes, it’s true – fresh, organic fruits and vegetables may cost more than some junk foods, but what you’re really doing here is putting a value on your health.
I’ll end with this: you shouldn’t be asking why organic food is considered expensive, you should be concerned why junk food is cheap…
* The author is an expert in vegan wellbeing and health. Instagram handle: @Ghanim92
