Expect higher US turkey prices at the grocery store
Avian influenza have led to lower turkey production
18 November 2022
1 minute read
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People who plan to buy turkeys to cook this holiday season can expect to pay more. Nathan Smith, Clemson Extension economist and Agribusiness Program team leader, said turkey production is down around 6% for the calendar year compared to 2021.
“High Pathogen Avian Influenza and high feed costs have negatively impacted turkey production leading to lower production,” Smith said. “As a result, turkey prices are higher than Thanksgiving 2021.”
National prices for fresh whole turkeys were $1.86 to $1.88 per pound in October 2022 as compared to $1.47 per pound in 2021. This is a 27% increase in the monthly wholesale price. Seasonally, whole turkey prices peak in October before Thanksgiving. Smith said turkey prices for 2022 are well above 2021 prices, as well as the previous 5-year average.
