Turkey Prices Higher With The Holidays Around The Corner

It looks like that Thanksgiving dinner is going to be more expensive this November.  Turkey prices are 73% higher than last year and analysts say they could stay that way through the holiday.  The dramatic increase is largely due to the spread of bird flu, which led to a smaller supply.  According to the USDA, 3.6% of turkeys nationwide have been killed by the HPAI this year.  Over 7 million of the birds infected during 2022 died of the avian influenza, rates of death peaking over the summer as Thanksgiving preparations began.

Higher feed costs and a labor shortage also factored in to the increase in price.

According to the USDA says the cost of an 8 lbs. to 16 bs. turkey is $1.99, compared to the $1.15 consumers paid in 2021.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-9791, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com