Navigating Egyptian Cuisine with G6PD Deficiency: Safe Eats and Pitfalls

Understanding G6PD Risks in Egyptian Food

G6PD deficiency requires avoiding triggers like fava beans (ful), which are central to Egyptian cuisine. Hemolytic anemia can occur through ingestion or even inhalation of fava plant pollen. Key caution zones include traditional dishes where beans might be hidden in sauces or fillings.

High-Risk Egyptian Dishes to Avoid

Ful Medames

Stewed fava beans, often served at breakfast. Strictly off-limits due to concentrated fava content.

Ta'ameya (Egyptian Falafel)

Traditionally made with crushed fava beans instead of chickpeas. Verify ingredients—some modern versions use chickpeas.

Koshari

While primarily lentils and pasta, some recipes include fava beans. Always confirm preparation details.

Fattah with Ful

Layered rice/meat dish sometimes topped with fava beans. Ask for versions without ful.

Safe G6PD-Friendly Alternatives

Hawawshi

Spiced meat baked in bread. Choose fillings without legumes or bean pastes.

Kebda Eskandarani (Alexandrian Liver)

Sautéed liver with spices—naturally bean-free. Confirm no fava-based sauces.

Grilled Meats & Seafood

Chicken tikka, kofta, or grilled fish. Avoid tahini sauce if sesame is a concern.

Roz bil-Laban (Rice Pudding)

Creamy dessert made with rice and milk. Verify no broad bean additives.

Dining Strategy in Egypt

1. Learn key phrases: "Ana 'andi G6PD, la tasta'mil ful?" (I have G6PD, no fava beans?)
2. Avoid street food—ingredients are harder to verify
3. Request written ingredient lists when possible

How mm food App Protects You

• Real-time menu scanning flags dishes containing fava beans or legumes
• Arabic-to-native-language translations clarify ingredient safety
• Custom dietary filters block items matching your G6PD profile
• Instant alerts for hidden risks like fasakh (dried fava) in spice blends

Explore Egyptian flavors confidently—mm food's AI safety net lets you savor safe dishes while avoiding triggers.