Rwanda: Nutritionists Recommend Alternative Protein Sources As Beef Prices Remain High
Following a Rift Valley Fever outbreak that drove up beef prices, Rwandan nutritionists are recommending alternative protein sources like chicken, fish, and soy products. Experts emphasize that these alternatives can provide necessary nutrients at a more affordable price point.
Why it matters
The advice addresses food security and nutritional health in the face of livestock-related economic shocks.
The outbreak of Rift Valley Fever, beef prices have gone up, with a kilogramme now selling for about Rwf8,000 to Rwf9,000, depending on where it is bought.
Before the Rift Valley fever outbreak disrupted livestock supplies, beef was selling at about Rwf6,000 to Rwf6,500 per kilogramme at wholesale level. Prices later rose to over Rwf10,000 and above before easing as demand declined.
With beef still relatively expensive for some households, nutritionists said consumers can get protein and other essential nutrients from a range of animal and plant-based foods.
Private Kamanzi, chairman of the Rwanda Nutritionists Society, said meat is an important source of protein and iron, which the body can readily absorb and use. However, he said those who cannot afford meat regularly can meet their nutritional needs through other foods.
He recommended chicken and fish, as well as soy-based foods such as tofu and soy milk.
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