Results NFP 2024 true pricing seed fund project: RDNA in Egypt

RDNA set out to raise awareness about the true cost of commodities, starting by comparing the true cost of organic meat vs conventional meat in Egypt. RDNA has direct engagement alongside the whole organic meat value chain; from cattle to the end consumer. The cows are raised in RDNA's partner farms SEKEM in Sharkia, 75 min from Cairo.

The project results include:

• Egypt's first exploratory analysis comparing organic and conventional beef production through a "True Price" lens. Key findings include:

  • The environmental costs of beef can be multiple times higher than its market value. Analysis shows most estimates between €16.88 to €49.17 in external environmental costs per kilogram globally. However, data on the organic value chain, particularly in Egypt and the MENA region, remains limited.

  • At SEKEM farm, beef is produced on land reclaimed from the desert. This unique method is expected to significantly reduce the environmental cost of land use, bringing it close to zero compared to conventional production methods.

  • Because SEKEM sets 30 square meters of open field per animal year-round, the study found a low animal welfare impact of €0.001 per kilogram of beef.

• A digital campaign reached over 10,000 organic views, raising awareness about the true cost of meat. See also RDNA’s Instagram video.

• A successful event that fostered dialogue among producers, policymakers, and industry experts on sustainable practices.

• A spin-off venture focused on sustainable livestock farming, serving as a living model of sustainable agriculture, demonstrating practical applications of the principles highlighted in the true price analysis.

Read more in RDNA’s final report.

We are pleased to share that RDNA will continue its true pricing work in Egypt. Stay tuned!