LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD-TV) — Thanksgiving shoppers will pay sharply more for their centerpiece birds this year, though several side-dish staples could offer some relief. Dr. David Anderson, livestock economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, says wholesale turkey prices have climbed to $1.68 per pound, up 70 percent from 99 cents a year ago.
Production is down by more than eight percent amid higher feed, labor, and energy costs, as well as lingering fallout from avian influenza, which continues to limit supply. With hens taking up to 18 weeks and toms more than 20 to reach market weight, rebuilding inventories has been slow, tightening availability heading into the holidays.
Grocers typically feature promotional pricing on turkeys to draw shoppers, but Anderson notes fewer specials so far this year. While centerpiece birds cost more, other items are trending lower: eggs down 51 percent, milk and butter cheaper on stronger dairy output, and modest declines for many baking goods. Ham and steak prices remain firm, and potatoes and cranberries are slightly higher than last year. Anderson says even with higher prices, turkey still represents good meal value given its yield and leftovers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: A smaller U.S. turkey flock and resurgent avian flu have tightened supplies, driving prices higher even as other key holiday foods show mixed trends.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
January 21, 2026 12:30 PM
·
Corn and wheat exports remain a demand bright spot, while soybeans are transitioning into a more typical late-winter shipping slowdown.
January 21, 2026 10:36 AM
·
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
·
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
·
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
January 19, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Freight volatility and route selection remain critical to soybean export margins and competitiveness.
January 19, 2026 04:00 PM
·
