Stores Lower Turkey Prices Amid Challenging Year While Thanksgiving Meal Costs Rise
The Thanksgiving season of 2023 has brought both challenges and opportunities for turkey producers and consumers across the United States. As the holiday approaches, the landscape of turkey pricing is affected by various factors including diseases, tariffs, and demand shifts.
Challenges Facing Turkey Producers
At Old Brick Farm in Michigan, Larry Doll successfully raised a flock of turkeys without encountering bird flu or avian metapneumovirus. These diseases severely impacted turkey populations, resulting in the loss of over 2 million birds nationwide in a three-month span. Doll’s operation has been in his family for five generations, underscoring the dedication to maintaining clean practices and minimizing risk.
- The U.S. turkey flock has shrunk to a 40-year low.
- Wholesale turkey prices are expected to rise by 44% this year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
- Doll plans to order 100 more turkey hatchlings to meet future demand.
Thanksgiving Meal Costs Rising
Despite some stores offering discounts on turkeys, the overall cost of Thanksgiving meals remains a concern for families. A recent survey indicated that a basket of Thanksgiving staples costs $58.81, which is a 4.1% increase compared to the previous year. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the general price of groceries rose by 2.7% in September.
Comparative Price Estimates for Thanksgiving
| Source | Cost for Thanksgiving Dinner | Change from Last Year |
|---|---|---|
| Datasembly | $58.81 | +4.1% |
| American Farm Bureau Federation | $55.16 | -5% |
| Wells Fargo Agri-Food Institute | $80 | -2% to -3% |
Grocery Store Promotions
To attract shoppers amid rising costs, grocery chains are implementing promotional offers. For instance, discount retailer Aldi promotes a $40 meal package for ten people, while Kroger advertises a menu for under $50.
Promotions from major retailers are seen as an attempt to draw consumers, especially as wholesale turkey prices have increased considerably—averaging $1.77 per pound for frozen hens, an 81% increase from the previous year.
Influencing Factors: Tariffs and Demand
Economic factors such as tariffs imposed on steel and aluminum are further contributing to higher grocery prices. According to experts, consumers could be paying an extra 10 to 40 cents per canned item due to these tariffs. Additionally, demand for turkey is rising as other meats become more costly; beef prices rose 14% in September compared to the previous year.
| Item | Price Change |
|---|---|
| Beef | +14% |
| Canned Goods | Up to +40 cents per can |
| Cranberry Sauce | +38% |
Farm to Table: Larry Doll’s Commitment
At Old Brick Farm, Doll views his role as more than just a producer. He takes pride in raising high-quality turkeys, sold for $6.50 per pound, which many customers describe as the best turkey they’ve ever had. This dedication to quality adds a personal touch to the holiday meals he helps provide.
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, consumers and producers alike navigate a complex landscape influenced by health concerns, economic factors, and the enduring tradition of sharing a festive meal.
