The objection
"Veganism is for rich people. Vegan products are expensive."
Problem 1: even if it were expensive, it would be worth fighting for
The more people are vegan, the bigger the demand for these products. And when demand goes up, prices tend to go down. So even if it were expensive today, that would be a reason for more people to join, not fewer.
Problem 2: actually, it isn't more expensive
The basic foods of a vegan diet are among the cheapest there are:
- rice and beans;
- lentils, chickpeas, and other legumes and grains;
- seasonal vegetables, greens, and fruit;
- potatoes, oats, pasta, bread.
Many of these foods are the staples of low-income families around the world.
What about processed products?
It's true that some ready-made vegan products, like plant-based burgers or vegan cheeses, are often more expensive. That's largely because there's still little demand for them. But they're not necessary. You can live as a vegan without buying them.
In short
- More vegans would make prices drop.
- Basic vegan foods are among the cheapest.
- Expensive processed products are optional.