Farm Bureau Survey: Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Down for Third Straight Year

Farm Bureau ^ | Nov. 15, 2018 | Shiloh Perry

[bgill]

The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 33rd annual survey of classic items found on the Thanksgiving Day dinner table indicates the average cost of this year’s feast for 10 is $48.90, or less than $5.00 per person. This is a 22-cent decrease from last year’s average of $49.12. “Since 2015, the average cost of Thanksgiving dinner has declined steadily and is now at the lowest level since 2010,” said AFBF Chief Economist Dr. John Newton. The featured food on most Thanksgiving tables – the turkey – cost slightly less than last year, coming in at $21.71 for a 16-pound bird. That’s roughly $1.36 per pound, down 3 percent from last year. The survey results show that retail turkey prices are the lowest since 2014.The shopping list for Farm Bureau’s informal survey includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and coffee and milk, all in quantities sufficient to serve a family of 10 with plenty for leftovers.

[bgill]

Whew, $48.90! No way. Easily half that in a normal year.

I was given a free turkey from a neighbor who didn't want to cook for himself. He'll go home with plenty to last a while. All other dishes can be made from the pantry and freezer adding up to less than $5 so no last minute shopping. Rolls, dressing and pies from scratch and the pecans from our trees.

I had bought a 78 cent/lb turkey but it can be saved for later in the year. Can't go wrong with the price of turkey at Thanksgiving or hams at Christmas.

Don't forget to boil the carcass for stock and save ham bones for bean pots.

[Clutch Martin]

I don’t know ‘bout ya’ll but the sweet tater crop around here was outstanding this year!

[Beowulf9]

Nice news. Where are you? We’re looking at making some for dinner :)

[UB355]

Local Walmart price for frozen Butterball is $.87 per pound. No separate purchase required