With the prices of beef, chicken, fish, and eggs rising beyond the reach of many households, nutrition experts are urging Nigerians to turn to cheaper but nutritious protein alternatives such as beans, crayfish, mushrooms, and even edible insects.
Findings show that a kilogram of cow meat now costs between ₦7,000 and ₦8,000, while goat meat goes for ₦9,000 to ₦10,000.
A crate of eggs sells for about ₦6,000 to ₦6,500, and fish prices range between ₦3,000 and ₦7,000 per kilogram, depending on the type.
Chicken and turkey also cost from ₦3,000 to ₦8,000 per kilogram, further squeezing family budgets already strained by inflation.
Prof. Wasiu Afolabi, former President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, stressed that while animal protein has become unaffordable for many households, there are accessible substitutes that can keep families healthy.
“Beans, soybeans, mushrooms, snails, and even edible insects like crickets and termites are rich in protein and have been part of Nigerian diets for generations,” he explained.
“Locust beans, when combined with crayfish, can also serve as an excellent meat replacement in soups and stews.”
He noted that soybeans, in particular, are highly versatile, as they can be processed into plant-based products that resemble and taste like meat.
Lentils and other lesser-known legumes, though not widely consumed, also provide valuable protein.
Afolabi admitted that crayfish remains an excellent option but warned that its rising cost could limit accessibility.
Nonetheless, he encouraged Nigerians to embrace traditional protein sources, many of which are being abandoned by the younger generation.
Supporting this view, Prof. Ignatius Onimawo, Vice-Chancellor of Ave Maria University, Abuja, said nutrition education is key to helping families eat healthily without breaking the bank.
“A healthy diet doesn’t have to be expensive,” he said. “If you can’t afford meat or fish, you can still meet your protein needs with beans, groundnuts, or bambara nuts.
It’s about understanding food groups and knowing which alternatives provide the same nutrients.”
Onimawo stressed that making informed choices can reduce costs while preventing malnutrition and diet-related illnesses.
The Federal Government has already raised concern about Nigeria’s worsening nutrition crisis.
In August, the Ministry of Health warned that the country faces a “triple burden” of undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiency, which threatens children, women, and vulnerable groups the most.
Experts agree that returning to traditional food habits and diversifying diets with affordable local options could be the most practical way for families to survive the current food inflation while safeguarding their health.
Post Views: 14
