Expert Alert

Expect high turkey prices this Thanksgiving

Professor Michael Boland. Credit: University of Minnesota/Getty Images.

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL (11/03/2022) — Families can expect their holiday turkeys to be more expensive than ever this year due to the combination of inflation and avian influenza.

The price of uncooked poultry, including turkey, was up 17% in September from the same time last year, according to the Consumer Price Index

Michael Boland, a professor in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, is available to provide expert comment on why the price of turkey is rising dramatically in 2022.

Michael Boland, Ph.D.

“As we’ve seen over the last several months, food prices across the board are on the rise, and the Thanksgiving turkey is no exception. Not only are turkey suppliers dealing with inflation and the rising costs of packaging, transportation and energy — but this year farmers are also battling avian influenza."

"Over 250 commercial bird flocks across the country have been affected, according to the USDA. The deadly disease means limited availability, which is contributing to higher prices at the grocery store. Restaurant and food service will likely have smaller sized turkeys due to the shortage.”

Michael Boland is a professor in the Department of Applied Economics in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. His areas of interest include agribusiness, cooperatives, industrial organization and supply chain. His research focuses on economic issues affecting the governance of agricultural and food supply or value chains.

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About the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences 
The University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) strives to inspire minds, nourish people, and sustainably enhance the natural environment. CFANS has a legacy of innovation, bringing discoveries to life through science and educating the next generation of leaders. Every day, students, faculty, and researchers use science to address the grand challenges of the world today and in the future. CFANS offers an unparalleled expanse of experiential learning opportunities for students and the community, with 12 academic departments, 10 research and outreach centers across the state, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum of Natural History, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers. 

About “Expert Alert”
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Media Contacts

Lori Fligge

College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, Twin Cities
612-626-5457