In 2022, 19.7% of the EU population at risk of poverty were unable to afford a meal containing meat, fish or a vegetarian equivalent every second day. Highest % in Bulgaria (44.6%) and Romania (43%)
The article already mentions "or a vegetarian equivalent".
Being vegetarian also means you have to have a balanced diet. That's not easy when you're poor.
Has anybody had the patience to investigate on the article and find out what is meant by "vegetarian equivalent"? I cannot believe that lentils or beans could be that expensive. Completely different picture for tofu, meat substitutes and the like.