For the most part, everyone in ancient Egypt had enough to eat. Peasants were able to grow their own wheat, fruit, and vegetables. More well-off citizens were able to get meat (goat, lamb, duck, or goose). Fish and pork were considered "unclean" - These foods were not acceptable as offerings to the gods. Those who could afford better quality food avoided these items. Poor people, however, found fish and birds from the Nile River to be an inexpensive source of food.
There were no actual shops - Farmers and craftsmen sold goods from market stalls set up on the street. No money was used (it hadn't been invented yet). Shoppers were able to buy items by trading something of equal value for it. This system is known as bartering. All wages and taxes were paid in this manner.
If you were going to market, you would take items you had made at home with you. These things could be exchanged for sandals, pottery, toys, or jewelry.
Laborers who worked on the Pyramids were issued rations of bread, onions, and beer on a daily basis. They were also paid in fish, grain, vegetables, and pottery. Beer and dates were occasionally included. They also received bonuses at festival time.
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