"Turkey Triumph: Thanksgiving Savings as Prices Plummet 5.6% Amid Poultry Challenges"

This Thanksgiving comes with a silver lining for your wallet as the cost of the centerpiece of your holiday feast— the turkey—has dipped by 5.6% compared to last year, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation's 38th annual survey. The main driver behind this drop in turkey prices, currently averaging around $27 for a 16-pound frozen whole turkey, can be traced back to efforts to curb the impact of the bird flu outbreak that took flight in 2022.

Farmers have been diligently combating the deadliest bird flu outbreak in U.S. history by implementing enhanced sanitation measures and upgrading barn ventilation. The outbreak, which spreads through saliva, nasal secretions, and feces, has led to the culling of over 4.5 million birds this year, a significant reduction from the staggering 58 million affected in 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

While experts express relief at the decreasing numbers, they remain cautious about the virus's persistence, stating that poultry will likely always be at risk. Denise Heard, a veterinarian with the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association trade group, emphasized the industry's heightened alertness in the face of the ongoing threat.

The avian flu has not only impacted the poultry population but has also tightened the supply of livestock, affecting prices of various goods. Last year, grade A eggs surged by 138% in December 2022 compared to 2021, costing around $4.25. In contrast, recent data from a USDA report released on Nov. 17 indicates that a dozen large white eggs now average $1.26.

Despite these challenges, the American Farm Bureau asserts that, while food inflation and supply chain issues persist, food remains more affordable in the U.S. than in other countries. On average, Americans spend only 6.7% of their annual income on food, a significantly lower percentage than our neighbors to the north in Canada, who allocate about 10% of their income to food expenses. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall attributes this affordability to robust farm bill programs, highlighting the resilience of the U.S. food supply system.

"Thanksgiving Feast Costs Climb: Second Highest Prices in Nearly Four Decades"

While the news of more affordable turkeys brings a sigh of relief, this Thanksgiving still marks the second most expensive meal in almost 40 years, as reported by the Farm Bureau. Their comprehensive survey, tracking the prices of turkey and various sides like cubed stuffing and sweet potatoes, reveals a mixed bag of cost fluctuations.

Most items witnessed a welcome decrease in price. However, exceptions to the downward trend include a veggie tray, 30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix, sweet potatoes, and a dozen dinner rolls, which experienced price hikes ranging from 0.3% to 3.7%. As families gather around the table this Thanksgiving, they may find themselves navigating a culinary landscape where the affordability of the main dish contrasts with a few unexpected twists in the prices of beloved side items.

"As we prepare to gather around the Thanksgiving table, the turkey takes center stage with a wallet-friendly 5.6% drop in prices compared to last year. However, the joy of this poultry price dip is accompanied by the acknowledgment that this year's Thanksgiving feast ranks as the second most expensive in nearly four decades, according to the Farm Bureau. While most items, including cubed stuffing and sweet potatoes, saw a decrease in cost, a few exceptions—such as the veggie tray, 30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix, sweet potatoes, and a dozen dinner rolls—have experienced modest increases ranging from 0.3% to 3.7%. Despite the mixed bag of price fluctuations, this Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of our food supply system, as families come together to celebrate gratitude, good company, and a meal that reflects the dynamics of the ever-evolving market."