Shift to a plant-based diet can lead to more sustainable Saudi food system

Shift to a plant-based diet can lead to more sustainable Saudi food system

In order to optimize Saudi Arabia's food systems, both the public and private sectors must work together. (SPA)
In order to optimize Saudi Arabia's food systems, both the public and private sectors must work together. (SPA)
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In the spirit of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s road map for economic diversification, global engagement and enhanced quality of life, the Saudi public and private sectors have been working together for the past several years to promote the benefits of plant-based foods and increase the sustainability of food systems.

Given the accelerating effects and implications of climate change, and global efforts to prevent further environmental degradation, efforts need to be made to ensure the foods people choose for their diets have a low impact on the environment and help guarantee the health and well-being of the current and future generations. Against this backdrop, plant-based diets are emerging as an important and viable option for a more sustainable future.

The global plant-based food industry also represents a key economic opportunity, with an estimated market value of $11.3 billion in 2023, which is projected to increase to $35.9 billion by 2033, a compounded annual growth rate of 12.2 percent. This predicted trajectory suggests a significant ongoing shift in consumer preferences and dietary habits, reflecting a deeper societal shift toward more health-conscious and sustainable living.

That said, the plant-based food industry does have its share of challenges and so it must step up to the plate. The most notable challenges include replicating the complex flavors of some types of food, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing the intricacies of product labeling, scaling production, and maintaining competitive pricing compared with traditional products.

As the effects of climate change continue to affect every country and pose challenges to agriculture, water supplies and ecosystems, the best way for Saudi Arabia to mitigate them is to promote and implement a shift toward a plant-based diet. By adopting and promoting modern agricultural techniques, Saudi government agencies and enterprises can help establish stable plant-based food supplies and a more sustainable future for the nation.

A study conducted a few years ago in the Kingdom of public opinion on the perceived attributes that best characterize a sustainable diet revealed that on a scale of 1 to 5, a diet rich in vegetables that are organically produced earned a high rating of 3.94. This bodes well for the demand for plant-based food options, which often utilize organic produce.

By adopting and promoting modern agricultural techniques, Saudi government agencies and enterprises can help establish stable plant-based food supplies and a more sustainable future for the nation.

Majed Al-Qatari

Worldwide, a shift toward a plant-based diet would help improve sustainability by reducing carbon footprints and emissions of greenhouse gases. Traditional livestock agriculture is blamed for 15 percent of global greenhouse-gas emissions. It uses 70 percent of all land used for agriculture, which must be cleared in preparation for rearing livestock, thereby resulting in deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

The good news from both data and anecdotal evidence is that demand for organic products is increasing in Saudi Arabia, in tandem with a palpable shift in consumer tastes toward plant-based foods. If the trend continues, it would be a dream come true for the restaurants and cafes in Saudi Arabia that have been adding plant-based and organic items to their menus.

As demand for products compatible with a plant-based diet grows, so will the number of stores serving that demand, which in turn will attract investors to businesses that supply those stores. This will also help to promote more sustainable farming practices.

Organic farming techniques, as previously noted, help to conserve biodiversity and soil fertility, while preventing soil erosion and degradation. Increased consumption of organically produced foods can also help to improve public health and ensure the sustainable utilization of natural resources.

In addition, plant-based diets can improve sustainability by reducing food waste compared with animal-based diets, resulting in lower carbon emissions during the production and disposal of food.

The Kingdom therefore advocates the sustainable production and consumption of food, taking into account population growth, environmental concerns, and diversification of the national economy.

The participation of the private sector in these efforts will include corporate sustainability schemes, the utilization of innovation and technology, and cooperation with academia and civil society organizations.

As Nada Alturki explains in her report on this page: “Just a few short years ago, visitors to Saudi Arabia could never have imagined feasting on a plate of vegan tuna nigiri or a meatless shawarma. Thanks to new investments in agricultural technologies, these plant-based alternatives are now firmly on the menu.”

This signifies the evolution of consumer choices and the influence of sustainable ways of doing business. Entrepreneurs are taking advantage of this trend by opening restaurants and cafes focused on plant-based diets around the country.

Optimization of sustainable food systems in Saudi Arabia will be best achieved through the combined contributions of both private and public sectors. Through food policy adjustment, innovation, and consumer awareness, Saudi Arabia can speed up its adoption of a future sustainable food system.

These sustainable food systems will see the Kingdom accelerating its food production, providing a steady supply to restaurants and cafes, lowering the rate of food imports, and majorly enhancing organic food consumption in homes, cafes, and restaurants in the country.

Majed Al-Qatari is a sustainability leader, ecological engineer and UN Youth Ambassador with experience in advancing ESG and sustainability goals in corporate businesses, nonprofit organizations and financial institutions.

 

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Arab News' point of view

Slovak envoy highlights strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia

Slovak envoy highlights strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia
Updated 3 min 41 sec ago
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Slovak envoy highlights strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia

Slovak envoy highlights strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: The Slovakian ambassador to Saudi Arabia hosted a special reception to celebrate his country’s national day.

Rudolf Michalka told Arab News that Nov. 17 marked the day Slovakia regained its freedom and began building a democratic system.

“This is the day when the people of Slovakia decided to take power into their hands and fight for freedom,” he added.

Despite the dissolution of the former Czechoslovakia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic have remained close partners.

Czechoslovakia was not a sovereign country and belonged to the Eastern Bloc, explained Michalka, but the people decided that freedom was more important. They took to the streets, gathering peacefully in the cold for weeks as part of what became known as the Velvet Revolution.

Michalka said that, for him, Slovakia represented an island of freedom and a free spirit that he treasured.

He added he was happy to host his Saudi friends as part of the celebrations: “This is what Nov. 17 means to me — a united Europe, celebrating its diversity, promoting peace and stability not only in the region but across the world, and fostering tolerance, cooperation, fairness, and honesty.”

Slovakia is now a member of NATO and the EU, has adopted the euro as its currency and joined the Schengen area.

The Slovak Embassy opened in the Kingdom two years ago and there has been yearly growth in diplomatic relations, said Michalka, with more opportunities on the horizon.

“The fact that we have doubled our mutual business between the two countries is worth mentioning. The numbers continue to grow,” he said, adding that the embassy will next week welcome a delegation from the Federation of Saudi Chambers in Bratislava, along with over 60 Saudi businessmen.

“This is a great achievement for us, and I believe that increasing business between our countries will make our relationship even stronger,” he told Arab News.

The ambassador also announced the establishment of the first Saudi-Slovak Business Council and said a Slovak consulate had opened in the Eastern Province this month.

“For many Slovak citizens, Saudi Arabia has become a second home. Slovaks working for successful companies in Riyadh, Jeddah or Kharj, especially in the medical field, along with the Czech community, have found a friendly, safe, and inspiring environment,” he said. “I am grateful to Saudi Arabia for its hospitality to our compatriots.”


Saudi Arabia edged out by UAE in T20 World Cup qualifier

Saudi Arabia edged out by UAE in T20 World Cup qualifier
Updated 6 min 17 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia edged out by UAE in T20 World Cup qualifier

Saudi Arabia edged out by UAE in T20 World Cup qualifier
  • Saudi Arabia registered 145 runs at the expense of six wickets in reply to the UAE’s 162-5 in 20 overs
  • Partnership between Rahul Chopra and Asif Khan put the UAE on the front foot

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia lost their second match in a row as the UAE registered their second consecutive win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier B in Doha, Qatar, on Wednesday.

The UAE beat Saudi Arabia by 17 runs to go top of the table. Saudi Arabia could only muster 145 runs at the expense of six wickets in reply to the UAE’s 162-5 in 20 overs.

The UAE’s decision to bat first at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium did not go their way at the start, as right arm seamer Ishtiaq Ahmad bowled a maiden over in the first over against Alishan Sharafu. Usman Najeeb continued the momentum in the second over, conceding just four runs. Sharafu fell to Ishtiaq in the fifth over for 19, and skipper Muhammad Waseem was out in the next over, leaving the UAE at 38-2.

It was the partnership between Rahul Chopra and Asif Khan that put the UAE on the front foot. Asif Khan scored 45 runs off 37 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes before being bowled by Usman Khalid in the 16th over.

Chopra, who was later announced the player of the match, took the score past 150 as he completed his half-century in 32 balls. In total, he faced 36 balls and hit six fours and two sixes in his innings of 58 runs. He was out caught on the last ball of the innings. Usman Khalid took two wickets, while Ishtiaq and Shahzaib took one each.

In reply, Faisal Khan started off well for the Kingdom, but he lasted only 17 balls. Faisal scored 27 runs as he sent one straight to skipper Waseem off 35-year-old debutant Simranjeet Kang, who got the prized wicket in only his second ball of his T20I career.

A centurion in the previous match, Abdul Waheed failed to continue the momentum as he struggled to get the runs going. Usman Khalid (four) and Abdul (six) were back in the hut by the eighth over, with the score at just 43. Skipper Waji Ul Hasan saved his wicket to let Manan Ali fire, but the required run rate kept going up. Waji was run out for 17 runs off 27 balls, with no boundaries. Manan’s counter-attacking play soon ended as Kang got another much-needed breakthrough for the UAE. Manan scored one four and three sixes in his 28-ball 33.

With 67 runs needed off 24 balls to win, the lower middle order had a go. Abdul Wahid hit 15 runs off 10 balls, Zain Ul Abidin remained not out on 19 off nine, while Usman Najeeb added 18 runs in 11 balls. All three hit a four and a six each. Teenager Dhruv Parashar shared two wickets with Kang for the UAE, while Mohammad Jawadullah took one wicket.

The result meant the UAE would overtake hosts Qatar in the table. Both teams have four points from two matches, but the UAE is ahead on net run rate. Qatar had earlier beaten Bhutan by six wickets. Thailand also overcame their loss the previous day by beating Cambodia by 16 runs.

Bahrain, who beat Saudi Arabia on the first day, has two points. Bhutan, Cambodia and Saudi Arabia are yet to open their accounts. Winless Saudi Arabia and Bhutan will face each other on Friday.

Hosts Qatar are joined by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Bhutan, Cambodia, Thailand and the UAE in the tournament. The top two teams from this qualifier will play in the regional final, which serves as a pathway for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held in 2026.

Malaysia and Kuwait have already booked their spots from the Asia Group A qualifier, while Samoa and Japan are representing the East Asia-Pacific region. Nepal, Oman and Papua New Guinea will also compete in the regional finals.


Saudi students gear up for global Formula 1 in Schools challenge

Saudi students gear up for global Formula 1 in Schools challenge
Updated 15 min 20 sec ago
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Saudi students gear up for global Formula 1 in Schools challenge

Saudi students gear up for global Formula 1 in Schools challenge
  • The Saudi teams will compete alongside 55 teams from 62 countries, representing 28,000 schools globally, in a high-stakes challenge to design and manufacture miniature racing cars

Four Saudi teams, comprising 24 male and female students, are preparing to compete in the Formula 1 in Schools World Final, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The competition, in its third round, will take place from Nov. 23 to 26 at Dhahran Expo, marking Saudi Arabia’s debut as host of this event.

The Saudi teams will compete alongside 55 teams from 62 countries, representing 28,000 schools globally, in a high-stakes challenge to design and manufacture miniature racing cars.

Ithra, King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, has overseen the teams’ preparation through a nine-month training program.

The initiative, led by 37 local and international experts across six specialized centers, focused on equipping students with advanced skills in engineering, design and teamwork.

Noura Al-Zamil, programs manager at Ithra, said: “We are proud to offer programs that reflect the scientific progress witnessed by the Kingdom on multiple fronts.

“Our goal is to empower youth in all cognitive and creative fields, nurture ambitious national talent in science, design and innovation, and showcase the capabilities of Saudi students on the global stage. They are the future leaders of the Kingdom’s creative industries.”

Al-Zamil said that the Formula 1 in Schools program transcended competition, offering a transformative educational experience.

“Students develop teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills in a dynamic and creative environment. The program fosters innovation and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enhance youth capabilities and prepare them for leadership in the industries of the future,” she said.


US vetoes UN resolution calling for ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages

US vetoes UN resolution calling for ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages
Updated 15 min 39 sec ago
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US vetoes UN resolution calling for ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages

US vetoes UN resolution calling for ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages
  • Resolution was put forward by 10 elected, non-permanent Security Council members
  • Over 44,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s war in Gaza began in October 2023

NEW YORK CITY: The US on Wednesday used the power of veto it holds as one of the five permanent member of the UN Security Council to block a resolution demanding “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire” in Gaza and “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.”

The resolution was put forward by the 10 elected, non-permanent members of the council. The US was the only one of the 15 members not to vote in favor of it.

The text of the resolution also called for the “safe and unhindered entry of humanitarian assistance at scale” to Gaza, including besieged areas in the north of the territory, and denounced any attempt to deliberately starve the population there.

More than 44,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s war in Gaza began in October last year, and the UN says that in excess of 70 percent of the verified deaths were among women and children. More than 130,000 people have been injured. The UN believes these figures to be an underestimate, given that scores of bodies are thought to be buried under the rubble of destroyed or damaged buildings.

The war has also displaced almost the entire population of the enclave, resulting in a humanitarian catastrophe.

On Monday, the UN’s Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices presented a report to the General Assembly in which it said the methods of warfare employed by Israel in Gaza, including the use of starvation as a weapon, the mass civilian casualties and the life-threatening conditions deliberately inflicted on Palestinians, are consistent with the characteristics of genocide.

After the Security Council failed to adopt the resolution on Wednesday, Majed Bamya, the Palestinian deputy ambassador to the UN, told its members that they were witnessing an attempt “to annihilate a nation” and yet the “very tools designed to respond (to this are) not being used.”

He added: “Maybe for some we have the wrong nationality, the wrong faith, the wrong skin color, but we are humans and we should be treated as such.

“Is there a UN Charter for Israel that is different from the charter you all have? Is there an international law for them? An international law for us? Do they have the right to kill and the only right we have is to die?

“What more can (Israel) do for this council to act under Chapter 7? Or will this council be the last place on earth that cannot recognize a threat to peace when they see it?”

Chapter 7 of the UN Charter relates to action that can be taken by member states in response to threats to peace and acts of aggression.

Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, told council members: “Today, a shameful attempt to abandon our kidnapped men and women by the UN was prevented. Thanks to the US, we stood firm with our position that there will be no ceasefire without the release of the hostages. We will continue in this struggle until everyone returns home.”

Robert Wood, the deputy US ambassador, said that an unconditional ceasefire would mean acceptance by the Security Council of Hamas remaining in power in Gaza.

“The United States will never accept this,” he added. “Rather than adopting a resolution that emboldens Hamas, let’s instead demand Hamas implement Resolution 2735 without further condition or delay.

“Let’s continue to ensure Israel facilitates additional humanitarian aid into Gaza, and let's work to bring a durable end to the suffering and misery of Hamas’ many victims."

Security Council Resolution 2735, which was adopted in June, calls on Hamas to accept a proposed hostage and ceasefire agreement with Israel.

British envoy Barbara Woodward, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the council this month, expressed regret over the failure of the council to adopt the resolution but vowed to “keep striving, alongside our partners, to bring this war to a close.”

She said: “The deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic and unacceptable. All of Gaza is at risk of famine, and in some areas this is likely to be imminent. Yet the aid reaching civilians remains entirely insufficient to mitigate this unfolding disaster.

“The unthinkable hardship that civilians are already facing in Gaza is set to get even worse as winter approaches.”

Woodward urged Israeli authorities to take “urgent action to alleviate this crisis. International humanitarian law must be respected by all sides.”

China’s ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong, said that even with the imminent threat of famine in Gaza, “the United States always seems to be able to find a justification to defend Israel.” It is a stance that represents a distortion of international humanitarian law, he added.

“People keep learning something new they never knew before was possible, and how low one can stoop. No wonder people feel angry,” said Fu.

“People’s indignation also stems from the fact that the continued supply of weapons from the US (to Israel) has become a decisive factor in the war lasting so long, causing so many casualties and so much destruction.”

He added: “All hostages must be released. An immediate and unconditional ceasefire must be established. Both are important factors. There should be no conditionality. They cannot be linked to each other because facts have shown that Israel’s military operations in Gaza have long exceeded the scope of rescuing hostages.

“Insistence on setting a precondition for ceasefire is tantamount to giving the green light to continuing the war and condoning the continued killing.”

The Algerian ambassador, Amar Bendjama, told the council after the vote: “Today’s message is clear.

“To the Israeli occupying power: You may continue your genocide and collective punishment of the Palestinian people with complete impunity. In this chamber, you enjoy immunity.

“To the Palestinian people: While the majority of the world stands in solidarity with your plight, tragically, others remain indifferent to your suffering.”

Nicolas de Riviere, France’s permanent representative to the UN, lamented the latest failure by the council to help bring an end to the war.

“France voted in favor of this resolution and deeply regrets that the (Security Council) remains unable to speak with one voice on the situation in the Middle East.”

The Russian envoy, Vassily Nebenzia, directly addressed his US counterpart and accused him of being responsible for the deaths “of tens of thousands of innocent civilians (and) the suffering of hostages and illegally detained Palestinians.”

He added: “It was very interesting to hear the American representative today, in the wake of the vote, say that the resolution does not contain provisions on the release of hostages. Well, it does contain such a provision. Perhaps the US representative should read through the resolution before voting against it.”


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh
Updated 24 min 20 sec ago
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh

Gosha, with several branches in Riyadh, has gained a loyal following for its fresh-baked flatbreads and creative flavor combinations.

This modern bakery is the go-to spot for fans of stone-baked delights, offering a unique twist on traditional recipes. 

The thyme with pomegranate flatbread is the star of the menu. Its tangy, earthy flavors are perfectly balanced and complemented by the crispness of the bread. Another top pick is the honey labneh flatbread, offering a delightful sweet-and-savory profile. The falafel wrap also deserves praise for its crispy, flavorful filling that feels hearty and fresh.

Gosha’s menu caters to those seeking variety, offering several options suitable for breakfast or light snacks. 

However, one thing missing from the experience is the addition of fresh beverages. It would be great to pair these delicious flatbreads with fresh juice, tea, or coffee, creating a more complete dining experience.

Overall, Gosha impresses with its innovative take on traditional flavors, vibrant presentation, and consistently high quality.

This is a great option for anyone looking for a quick, delicious bite in Riyadh.

For more information, check the bakery’s Instagram @qooshah.