Egypt is having a very difficult time supplying enough food to meet the demands of its swelling population. This complex problem is analyzed and discussed from a variety of perspectives. Factors such as foreign aid, family planning, agriculture, demographics, and religious and social culture are examined, as well as more specific issues such as food versus cash crops, desert development, productive capacity, hydroponics, and state capitalism. Intended to provide background information for a social studies unit on Egypt, the material may be useful in high school economics or global studies classes. (DB)