A late Easter this year is causing March processed meat sales to fall by 9%

The late timing of Easter this year is having an impact on meat sales.

Easter is considered the third-biggest meat holiday behind Christmas and Thanksgiving. The holiday is three weeks later than last year, which is impacting year-over-year data.

While dollar sales grew due to inflation, pounds purchased dropped by more than 4%. That was driven by processed meat declines, which include smoked ham.

While March was negatively impacted by the holiday’s late timing, April sales are expected to receive a boost.

Related Stories
“A can for your favorite pie, bread, or whatever, it is probably Illinois-grown.”
The Washington Tree Fruit Association says this is not surprising and notes the USDA has offered a lifeline to growers while they transition away from the cannery market.
October 29 – November 1, 2025