7 days ago
Healthy food scene expands in Kuwait, but prices, trust remain issues
By Manar Alsuwaidan
KUWAIT: Healthy food options are becoming increasingly available in Kuwaiti eateries. Many establishments are offering dishes such as grilled chicken, fresh salads, smoothies, and low carb wraps on their menus. Although these restaurants are always packed with people looking to improve their diets, the high prices leave many wondering if the cost is justified.
In Kuwait, 'healthy' eateries tend to be more expensive than other concepts. For instance, a fast-food lunch may just cost KD 2, but a nutritious bowl may cost KD 5 or 6. Because the ingredients are marketed as healthier and fresher, some consumers believe the extra price is reasonable. Others think it's simply too costly, particularly if they were students or just regular diners who are not health conscious.
'I feel more focused and active when I eat healthily,' a woman who didn't want her name published told Kuwait Times. 'I have no problem paying more for that.'
A struggle for students
Fahad Al-Sayegh, a university student, said he enjoys the variety of healthy food options available in Kuwait, but his joy is diminished when it's time to pay the bill. 'I attend school. I am unable to buy three nutritious meals every day. But for the same amount, I can have three regular or fast-food meals,' he said. This draws attention to a prevalent problem: Although people want to eat healthier, their budgets don't always allow for it. And it's not surprising that consumers go toward fast food when it's more affordable and satisfying.
Another young man, who didn't want to be named, said that he would rather spend more time at home prepping meals for the week than spending a larger amount for healthy food.
Transparency issues
Mishari Alsalman, another young adult in Kuwait, said he always questions the nutritional labels, including calorie and macro counts, printed on healthy food items. He prefers establishments that commission certified labs to calculate these numbers. 'Only when I see a certificate do I trust the macros,' he said. 'A few social media accounts verify numbers declared by some eateries and make posts about them.'
Mishari said he depends on reliable sources even though he doesn't personally verify every element. Knowing the accurate nutritional facts, he added, is essential for people like him to make wise decisions.
Not everyone dedicates time to figuring out macros or reading food labels. Some folks, like Noor, who didn't give her last name, simply obey their cravings and wouldn't pay more for a meal that is marketed as healthy. Noor believes that the food is nourishing because it tastes fresh and light, not because of what's written on its label. Even when she feels good about her choices, cost still factors in.
Regardless of how they judge what's healthy or not, most people who spoke with Kuwait Times appear to weigh cost, taste, trust, and personal habits in addition to nutritional research when making judgments. 'To make sure I know what I'm eating, I look at the nutrition facts, calories, carbs, and protein,' a young man who didn't give his name said. This demonstrates how some consumers are learning to read labels and comprehend what constitutes a genuinely healthy meal. Having that knowledge at their disposal enables them to make more intelligent dietary decisions.
