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
Recent USDA reports show a steady feedlot supply despite growing consumer demand for beef, ahead of typical seasonal summer trends.
Bigger flocks are rebuilding egg and poultry supply.
Tight supplies are driving stronger early-year cattle prices.
As spring migration ramps up, USDA officials warn farmers about rising bird flu risks and urge stronger biosecurity measures. Resources are available through APHIS to help protect livestock.
Herd growth and exports supporting dairy outlook.
APHIS Veterinary Medical Officer Dr. Chelsey Shiveley discusses USDA’s biosecurity resources available to poultry producers ahead of spring migration, increasing the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) threatens commercial flocks.

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:

Dairy markets are improving, but large supplies still cap the upside.
Investment and access to capital remain critical for agriculture.
Strong ethanol exports support long-term growth in corn demand.
Jake Charleston from Specialty Risk Insurance Agency recapped an Oklahoma auctioneer contest and recent industry events, showing how stakeholder feedback helps insurers gauge market conditions and risk management needs.
Cattle-on-Feed is down on the year in the USDA’s April report, with lower placements and marketings signaling tighter feedlot activity.
Steven Snow with the U.S. Small Business Administration joined us to discuss tax relief for rural Americans and the long-term benefits of new provisions impacting farmers and small businesses.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
In the harsh Australian Outback, water drillers Danyelle and Anthony Haigh give up their nomadic life of searching for water for cattle ranches, to offer their two sons, Heath and Theo, a more settled life. They swap water drilling for something they’ve never done before – farming.
The internationally-known “King of Polka,” 18-time Grammy award winner for “Best Polka Album,” and bandleader of arguably the most popular polka band in America—Jimmy Sturr—is taking to the stage for another slate of shows made for his fans and polka lovers across the country.
Strong rural traditions, religion, cowboy boots, and technology collide in “Cowboy Church” — and taking part is as easy as turning on the TV! Airing Sundays on RFD Network.
“Positively Paula,” is a nationally-syndicated lifestyle/food show that invites viewers to share a moment with their friend: Paula Deen, who we know and love.
Madison Brown grew up on the road and now invites viewers to follow along with her as she continues to indulge her love of exploring new places, including behind-the-scenes at big events and tourist attractions, and celebrity interviews with the likes of country star Toby Keith, former NBA player Karl Malone, former MLB pitcher Greg Maddux, and “Brady Bunch” star Christopher Knight (Brown’s uncle).