Meat Priced Beyond Reach
Sohiba Olimpour reports on declining meat consumption as an indication of low incomes and rising prices in Tajikistan.
Meat Priced Beyond Reach
Sohiba Olimpour reports on declining meat consumption as an indication of low incomes and rising prices in Tajikistan.
Meat is traditionally an important part of the Tajik diet, but it is now so expensive that few can afford to buy it on a regular basis.
“I sell meat myself, but I only eat it once a week,” said a market trader interviewed in Dushanbe. “Being a butcher doesn’t mean you get to eat meat every day.”
Health officials warn that for those who can afford it, buying meat can be a risk, as hygiene standards are low in many markets. The white-coated hygiene inspectors patrolling the markets offer an illusory sense of security, as officials say many are unqualified and have been hired by the market owners themselves.
“I sell meat myself, but I only eat it once a week,” said a market trader interviewed in Dushanbe. “Being a butcher doesn’t mean you get to eat meat every day.”
Health officials warn that for those who can afford it, buying meat can be a risk, as hygiene standards are low in many markets. The white-coated hygiene inspectors patrolling the markets offer an illusory sense of security, as officials say many are unqualified and have been hired by the market owners themselves.
