Americans Expected to Consume 1.48 Billion Super Bowl Wings

Strong seasonal demand and manageable production growth continue to support poultry markets.

Roasted chicken wings in barbecue sauce with sesame seeds and parsley in a baking tray on a dark table_Photo by Vasiliy via AdobeStock_247268324.jpg

Photo by Vasiliy via Adobe Stock

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — Americans are projected to eat 1.48 billion chicken wings during Super Bowl LX, slightly higher than last year, underscoring strong seasonal demand for poultry as the game anchors winter food consumption. The National Chicken Council estimates wing consumption will rise by about 10 million wings year over year, reinforcing poultry’s role as a staple protein during major sporting events.

Retail data show that demand has already surged during the NFL playoff window. Over the past four weeks, wing unit sales rose nearly 20 percent nationally, with dollar sales up more than 11 percent. Regional trends were especially strong in Seattle and Boston markets, while Los Angeles consumers led the field in per-capita wing purchases.

Prices remain supportive for consumers. Fresh wing prices averaged about $3.47 per pound, down nearly 3 percent from a year ago, aided by a 2.2 percent increase in U.S. broiler production during 2025 and lower feed costs. Despite softer prices, cold storage wing inventories entering December were among the tightest for the month in more than a decade, signaling early stock-building by retailers and foodservice.

Production gains have helped ensure availability without pressuring margins across the supply chain.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong seasonal demand and manageable production growth continue to support poultry markets.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
A community survey found strong demand for fresh produce, meat and locally sourced products.
Research shows poultry taking a larger share of food spending among lower-income single-person households.
Frost damage and slower production are putting pressure on this year’s pepper crop.
Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi discusses the Farm Bill and the issues she expects lawmakers to address as the legislation moves forward.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

New systems are moving beyond data analysis to make real-time decisions directly on farm equipment.
Ted Ogle of Superior Livestock says limited supplies still underpin the market despite a slight retreat in cattle prices, but expects volatility to persist into the fall.
Santa Teresa livestock port reopens September 24, restoring another cattle trade route from Mexico while maintaining new safeguards against New World screwworm.
Analysts expect USDA’s September Cattle on Feed report to show fewer August placements and marketings than a year ago, even as the total feedlot inventory remains higher.
Thirty-six percent of North American row-crop farmers expect to shift toward generics over the next two years.
Cotton prices are expected to improve, but higher production costs are limiting the recovery in producer margins.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.