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
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