turkey Tag Search

The Retail Rundown: Ham Leads the Holiday Table as Promotions Surge

During Easter week, pork dominates the spotlight, accounting for 30% of all protein promotions. Within this category, ham stands out as the clear leader, making up 37% of all pork features and the highest share in the segment. Promotional activity has surged dramatically, with approximately 13,583 ham-related opportunities this week, a sharp increase from about 1,300 the week prior.

Data from Expana’s US Easter Index shows that wholesale prices for key holiday items have generally declined in 2026. The overall index dropped about 7% year-over-year (YOY)...

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Apr 1 9:09 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Newcastle Disease Re-Emerges in Germany After Nearly 30 Years

Newcastle disease (ND) has re-emerged in Germany after an interval of nearly three decades, with the first outbreaks reported in mid-February 2026. As of March 4, a total of 10 cases have been confirmed.

According to German media reports, the initial outbreak occurred in the Oder-Spree district of Brandenburg, near the Polish border, affecting a flock of approximately 23,000 slaughter turkeys. Subsequent outbreaks were reported on February 27, including cases on a farm with nearly 40,000 laying hens in the Erding district and in a flock of 30,000 broiler chickens in the Mühldorf district, Bavaria...

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Mar 31 10:56 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Turkey Pricing Influences Demand Shifts and Cold Storage Accumulation

Total cold storage of turkeys was down year-over-year in February but showed a greater month-over-month increase compared to the 5-year average...

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Mar 30 11:37 AM, Expana

Lifetime Achievement Award to Honour Christy Puffenbarger at Executive Conference

This April, Christy Puffenbarger will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 50th edition of the Executive Conference at the Wynn, Las Vegas.

The moment coincides with two milestones: the conference’s 50th edition, and Christy becoming the first woman to chair the National Turkey Federation in its 80-year history.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual who has had a multi-faceted and distinguished career in the food industry, while supporting and advocating for others in the sector. Few careers fit that description more completely than Puffenbarger’s...

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Mar 30 10:25 AM, Expana

National Turkey Federation

Executive Conference

ANALYSIS: Global HPAI Disruptions Boost US Turkey Export Competitiveness Despite Price Premiums

Total turkey exports from the US in January showed a 33.6% increase in volume from last year and a 9.8% month-over-month (MOM) increase, despite a 5-year average decline in volume from December to January of 12.7%. While pricing for most US turkey items was significantly higher this year than last year, a number of other countries suffered outbreaks of HPAI, limiting global competition. At the same time, outbreaks of HPAI within turkey flocks in the US for January were significantly lower than they were...

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Mar 26 7:00 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Retailers Pivot to Spring Promotions as Seafood, Pork Lead Features

Spring officially arrived last week, bringing seasonal shifts that grocers are already leveraging. The warming trend is prompting retailers to spotlight items like fresh produce alongside grilling favorites, as shoppers move away from winter staples and prepare to fire up their grills.

With Easter less than two weeks away, weekly ads are increasingly featuring traditional holiday items such as hams, whole turkeys, lamb, eggs, and desserts. Hams and whole turkeys, in particular, are seeing more prominent ad coverage as shoppers stock up on their main holiday staples...

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Mar 25 8:52 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Spring Demand Builds as Easter and Grilling Season Approach

Following an extended winter in some areas and disruptive weather in others, sentiment across the food industry is beginning to shift in a more optimistic direction.

As spring approaches, many retailers are counting on a release of pent-up demand, with consumers eager to refresh their routines. The seasonal reset could translate into more frequent dining occasions, while retailers are positioned to benefit from the return of backyard cooking and holiday gatherings.

With Easter now under three weeks away, the calendar itself is acting as a demand catalyst, pulling forward promotional activity and shaping merchandising strategies...

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Mar 18 9:20 AM, Expana

USPOULTRY Accepting Research Pre-Proposals

USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation are inviting colleges, universities and research facilities to submit research pre-proposals by May 1 for the 2026 Fall Research competition. The program supports innovative research aimed at addressing key challenges across poultry and egg production, from animal welfare and food safety to environmental management and employee health.

Through its long-standing research program, USPOULTRY partners with leading universities and research institutions to generate practical solutions that strengthen the poultry industry and support safe, efficient food production.

Pre-proposals consist of a one-page synopsis submitted through the online submission...

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Mar 17 2:37 PM, Expana

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Frozen RTE Turkey Stuffed Pastry Products Due To Misbranding

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen ready-to-eat turkey stuffed pastry products due to misbranding. Some boxes of the turkey, pesto, and cheese stuffed pastries contain ham and cheese instead. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

The turkey, pesto, and cheese stuffed pastries were packaged on Feb. 18, 2026, and may contain ham and cheese stuffed pastry items. The following product is subject to the public health alert...

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Mar 16 7:05 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Grocers Refresh Promotions Ahead of Spring Holidays; CPI Meets Expectations

With spring around the corner, grocers are leaning on improving weather and refreshed promotional campaigns to attract shoppers to the meat and seafood departments.

Seafood remains a main focus this week as the Lenten season continues, accounting for 27% of total protein promotions, tied with beef for the top spot. Pork follows with 24% of total advertised features, while chicken holds 15% of total protein ad space.

Within seafood, filets dominate promotional activity, with shrimp advertisements close behind. Last week, the fresh finfish category averaged $9.84 per pound...

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Mar 11 9:10 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: January Production Down 2 Million Birds From 2023, Complicating Market Outlooks

The turkey industry began 2026 with the lowest January harvest on record. At just 15.0 million head, the total sits 9.0% below the five year average, while average live weights were only 0.2% higher than the five year norm. Persistently low poult placements continue to signal constrained production potential in the months ahead, and a record low harvest to begin the year has amplified concern among market participants regarding near term supply availability.

Interestingly, even as harvest volumes remain well below historical standards, a price correction is unfolding across the parts and raw materials complexes. Record high pricing for items...

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Mar 6 7:22 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: 21st Annual Power of Meat Report Sees Sales Soar to Fresh Record

Meat sales climbed to a new record of $112 billion in 2025, up 2% from the prior year, according to the 21st annual Power of Meat report released at the Annual Meat Conference by the Meat Institute and FMI—The Food Industry Association.

The report found meat remains a near-universal staple, with 98% of US households purchasing meat. For retailers, this underscores the importance of keeping meat and poultry front and center to capture consumer spending, especially as health and wellness trends continue to drive demand for protein...

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Mar 4 9:01 AM, Expana

Iran War Enters Fourth Day, Driving Higher Crude Prices and Broad Commodity Swings

The US-Israeli war on Iran intensified into its fourth day, with Tehran reporting a death toll of 787 as strikes continue to target leadership and infrastructure. Israel’s campaign, initially described as a two-week operation, is reportedly advancing faster than expected, with no firm end date signaled. US President Donald Trump said the war could last four to five weeks.

Global markets remain on edge. Crude oil surged nearly 4% in overnight trade, while European equities fell sharply. US stock futures also pointed lower, with the three major indices last shedding about 2%...

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Mar 3 11:51 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: 2025 Turkey Exports Second Lowest in 25 Years as Production Tightens

Total turkey exports declined in 2025 following the trend of lower production. At 425 million lbs. of production, US exports of turkey meat were at the second lowest value of the past 25 years, only slightly higher than the volume of turkey moved in 2022...

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Feb 26 10:58 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Winter’s Grip Lingers as Lent Lifts Seafood Features

As the last week of February winds down, retailers are eager to move beyond the month’s typical slowdown and pivot toward spring. Still, harsh winter weather, including a recent blizzard in the Northeast, has kept many shoppers in stock-up mode, with warmer days feeling distant for some.

Feature activity remains solid across the protein complex. Seafood commands 33% of total ad space, followed by pork at 22%. Beef accounts for about 20%, while chicken represents just over 15%. Egg promotions rose to 6%, up 2 points week-over-week...

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Feb 25 8:50 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Diverging Protein Output Trends Take Shape In Q1

The USDA’s first-quarter 2026 production outlook underscores a protein landscape that is increasingly differentiating itself from this time last year. Supply growth is concentrated within the poultry and pork sectors, while beef production continues to face headwinds...

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Feb 19 9:50 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Retail Focus Turns to Lent Promotions

This week in retail, attention is focused on Lent and the broader economic landscape, with inflation back in the spotlight following the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release. Although overall inflation showed signs of cooling, food costs continue to edge higher on a monthly basis, keeping value messaging front and center as grocers work to attract price-sensitive consumers.

With the Christian Lenten season now underway, retailers are pivoting quickly. The 40-day period of fasting and reduced meat consumption among Catholics is traditionally a tailwind for seafood, and grocers are leaning into features and promotional pricing to capture traffic...

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Feb 18 9:15 AM, Expana

Hormel Foods to Divest Whole-Bird Turkey Business to LSI

Hormel Foods has announced it will sell its whole-bird turkey business to Life-Science Innovations (LSI). The transaction is expected to close by the end of the second quarter of Hormel’s fiscal year 2026.

The sale includes the Melrose, Minnesota, whole-bird production facility, Swanville feed mill, and associated transportation assets. Hormel will retain ownership of the JENNIE-O® brand and its broader product lineup. LSI will assume supply contracts with turkey growers and provide co-manufacturing services to Hormel through fiscal 2026.

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Feb 18 3:06 AM, Expana

Animal Feed

Merger And Acquisitions

Hormel Foods

Jack Link's® Unleashes Carnivore Bites for Value-Seeking Protein Snackers

Jack Link's, the undisputed leader of real meat protein snacks, has unleashed Carnivore Bites. What the heck are Carnivore Bites?

We're talking 65 pieces that come in dangerously flavorful Original and Teriyaki options, packed with 10-grams of protein in every serving. That's more than five dozen pieces of real meat protein for a suggested retail price of $19.99, delivering monster value in a world where every dollar counts.

But Carnivore Bites bring more than flavor and value. They're made with 100% real beef, which contains, zinc, iron, and key nutrients that support muscle, bones, and immune health...

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Feb 17 7:28 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Beef Leads Valentine’s Protein Features as Lobster Prices Ease

Beef tops protein feature volume this week, accounting for 25.1% of ad space. Seafood follows at 23.6%, with pork at 23.1% and chicken at 22.1%. Egg promotions fell to just 2% of total protein ads, down four points from the prior week amid softening retail demand.

Steaks dominate Valentine’s beef promotions, representing 40% of all beef features. Ribeyes, T-bones, and boneless strip filets lead the lineup, and all at sizable premiums compared to last year.

According to Expana’s US Valentine’s Day Index, tenderloin prices have eased month-over-month...

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Feb 11 8:52 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Extreme Volatility Keeps Participants Cautious in Fresh Turkey Breast Market

When it comes to the fresh tom breast meat market, record high prices were set from mid-September into October. Now, even with the current downturn in pricing, the value is still at a seasonal high.

For decades, fresh tom breast meat pricing fell between one and four dollars; it wasn’t until 2014 that the four-dollar mark was broken. Since then, the market has shown extreme volatility, falling $4.10 in a single year from September of 2022 to September of 2023 and rising $5.30 from November...

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Feb 5 6:58 AM, Expana

Blimpie Stacks the Flavor with New Deli Primo Sub

This year, Blimpie® (www.Blimpie.com) is turning up the flavor with the launch of its newest menu item, the Deli Primo. Perfect for lunch, dinner or anytime cravings, this hearty sub is available for a limited time now through June 1, 2026.

The Deli Primo is loaded high with premium deli meats, such as roast beef, turkey, salami, proscuittini and layered with pepperjack cheese, fresh tomatoes, lettuce and onion and finished with a sprinkle of zesty parm seasoning. The sub is then topped with a bold...

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Feb 4 11:25 AM, Expana

On 2/6/26, Get 2 6-Inch Subs for $6 as Subway® Celebrates the Only Date That Repeats

This Friday, Subway is giving everyone lucky numbers that are guaranteed winners: two freshly-made six-inch subs for just $6 on 2/6/26.* Snag the deal by asking for the 2/6/26 promo at Subway restaurants across the country, or on the Subway App or Subway.com using promo code 2626PROMO.

This weekend is all about the numbers – point spreads, over-unders, squares, superstitions and more. As sports fans prep...

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Feb 3 10:48 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Early-2026 Turkey Slaughter Signals Stabilization, Disease Risks Cap Upside Potential

2026’s preliminary weekly slaughter data for 2026 offers a cautiously constructive signal for the turkey industry. On paper, modest year-over-year improvements in turkey egg sets and poult placements toward year-end 2025 also suggest that a slight improvement in production could be in the cards as the year progresses. That said, optimism remains tempered by ongoing disease challenges, which loom large, keeping expectations restrained across the...

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Jan 29 11:03 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: December Turkey Cold Storage Inventories Stay Tight Despite Post-Holiday Shifts

The latest USDA cold storage report for December 2025 continues to underscore a tightly supplied turkey market, even as typical post-holiday adjustments begin to surface. On a year-over-year (YOY) basis, inventories across whole birds, breasts, legs, and total turkey holdings all remained lower, with declines ranging from roughly 27–34%, while MST was essentially flat; down just 1.2% YOY. Collectively, total turkey inventories finished December 24.6% below last year, reinforcing the ongoing impact of production constraints tied to HPAI and related health challenges.

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Jan 28 10:59 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Frozen Whole Turkey Prices Fall 10% in Early January Yet Remain Near Record Highs

Over the first couple weeks of January, frozen whole turkey quotations fell by 10% from the end of 2025. This is a much sharper decline than we see with the five-year average or with last year’s figures. However, frozen turkey quotations started the year at the second-highest level of all time, and they maintain that position even with the fall in prices. Moreover, recent input indicates that some stabilization may be starting to surface. If this is the case, it would make this year’s seasonal drop much shorter-lived than is typically seen...

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Jan 23 7:55 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Beef Leads Features as Winter Weather Boosts Comfort Foods

Beef leads protein feature activity this week, capturing 28.5% of total ad space. Seafood follows at 26%, while chicken gained momentum with a 20% share. Pork accounts for 18% of features, and turkey remained steady at roughly 2%.

Egg feature activity was generally flat week-over-week at about 4% as retail demand continues to build nationwide. Forecasted inclement weather across parts of the US later this week and into the weekend has lifted retailer needs, with buying activity picking up notably since early in the week, according to Expana...

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Jan 21 8:37 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Turkey Market Eyes Modest Supply Relief as Egg Sets Improve Year-Over-Year

The turkey industry closed out 2025 with the second-lowest poult placement number on record, sitting just above that of 2024. However, the egg set figures for January 2026 outpaced those of 2024 and 2025, providing the possibility for slightly greater supply availability in the coming months.

During seven months in 2025, poult placements hit an all-time seasonal low, which influenced record low harvest figures throughout much of the year. On top of slim production numbers, HPAI resulted...

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Jan 15 10:49 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Retail Posts Late-Year Gains, but Food Inflation Heats Up

Early 2026 opens with a mixed picture for the food and broader retail sectors.

Retail sales closed out 2025 with solid momentum, as CNBC/NRF data showed holiday sales from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31 rising 4.1% from the year prior. Food and beverage stores also ended the year strong, posting a 0.33% month-over-month gain on a seasonally adjusted basis and a 2.85% increase from a year earlier.

That strength now faces challenges as the industry moves into its usual post-holiday slowdown, amplified by...

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Jan 14 9:21 AM, Expana

Jersey Mike's Launches New Chapter of Growth with International Expansion into the UK and Ireland

Jersey Mike's Subs, a leading franchisor of over 3,200 fast-casual sandwich shops known for its fresh sliced and fresh grilled subs, today announced it has signed a franchise agreement with JM Submarines UK LTD, led by Jersey Mike's founder and Chairman of the Board, Peter Cancro, to open 400 stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Cancro founded Jersey Mike's more than 50 years ago and remains a significant shareholder following the Company's sale to Blackstone last year...

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Jan 13 6:43 AM, Expana

Subway Launches Resolution-Ready, Protein-Packed Menu to Meet Consumer Demand

Aligned with the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025–2030, Subway is reinforcing its commitment to protein-forward, value-driven menu innovations. The brand is kicking off the new year with "resolution-ready" offerings designed to meet evolving consumer demand for affordable, better-for-you choices.

Subway’s New Year lineup delivers on what consumers continue to prioritize: "protein power" at an accessible price point.

On Jan 8, Subway introducesd its all-new Protein Pockets, each delivering more than 20g of protein, paired with fresh vegetables...

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Jan 9 11:15 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Turkey Industry Continued to Battle Record Low Production in November

The USDA’s monthly slaughter numbers for November once again set a new seasonal low in terms of the number of turkeys harvested and the volume of ready-to-cook turkey meat produced...

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Jan 8 10:36 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: New Year's Resolutions Sustain Protein Demand

January ushers in seasonal headwinds that typically temper consumer spending, as post-holiday budget pressures encourage more cautious purchasing behavior.

While retail traffic generally softens after the holidays, protein demand remains resilient, supported by early-year wellness goals. Protein also continues to anchor merchandising strategies across foodservice as operators adjust to shifting consumer habits, including the growing use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications.

According to the International Food Information Council’s 2025 Food & Health Survey, high-protein eating remains the most commonly followed diet among Americans, with 23% reporting adherence last year, followed by mindful eating at 19%, marking the third...

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Jan 7 8:21 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Frozen Whole Toms Rise From Five-Year Low to Near-Record Highs in 2025

The 16 lbs. frozen whole tom market started 2025 with the lowest value of the past 5-years. Starting in February though, it rose over the course of the year until it now sits at the second highest value ever recorded. This year’s December quotations fall only behind 2022 when the current outbreak of HPAI started. The value of frozen whole turkeys increased through much of 2022 before stabilizing in November. Prices then plateaued through April of 2023 before rapidly falling through the rest of the year. Quotations maintained a sideways trend through...

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Dec 31 6:49 AM, Expana

PuraVida Foods Expands KidsLife™ Line with New Disney and Pixar-Themed Frozen Meals

PuraVida Foods, the company redefining frozen food through flavor and technology, announced today an exciting new chapter for its KidsLife™ brand: a line of nutritious, chef-crafted frozen meals featuring select Disney and Pixar characters. Launching this month, the collection will debut exclusively with Sprouts Farmers Market nationwide beginning December 22 highlighting favorites from Disney’s Frozen, Disney’s Moana, Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, Disney’s Mickey Mouse & Friends, and Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story, bringing a fresh mix of innovation and fun to family...

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Dec 24 8:00 AM, Expana

Chicken

Frozen Meals

Consumer Packaged Goods

ANALYSIS: UK Turkey Prices Surge Amid Tight Supply and Avian Influenza Pressures

The Expana price for turkey in the UK rose to £9.40/kg on 10 December 2025, representing a year-over-year (YOY) increase of 30.56%, driven by a combination of strong seasonal demand and constrained supply. Supply tightness has been exacerbated by turkey farm and processing plant closures in 2024 and early 2025, as rising costs and sustained unprofitability forced some operators to exit the market...

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Dec 23 9:29 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Q4 Turkey Eggs in Incubators Fall to Record Low of 74 Million

Turkey production potential heading into 2026 remains positioned at an all-time low. The number of eggs in incubators during Q4 of 2025 has equaled approximately 74.0 million, 0.6% lower than that of 2024 which held the previous record low. This is 5.6% lower than the 5-year average during Q4. The production of hatching eggs is limited by the number of breeder turkeys, large numbers of which have been lost to HPAI. In Q4 alone, 110,500 breeder hens were destroyed due...

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Dec 19 9:34 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Demand Builds, Pork Steps Into the Spotlight

With just over a week remaining until Christmas, supermarket circulars are serving as the hub for holiday party planning. Most seasonal food shopping is expected to be concentrated this week, with fresh meat and deli items leading the charge.

Store traffic is poised to increase as retailers vie aggressively for holiday dollars in an increasingly competitive retail environment heading into 2026.

Pork took the top spot in this week’s protein features, fueled by a spike in holiday ham promotions. Pork accounted for 30% of total...

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Dec 17 8:50 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Turkey Prices Surge YOY on Supply Shortages; Breast Meat Up 295%

This year's turkey market has been exceptionally bullish in nearly all regards. Pricing for nearly all items aside from hearts and gizzards currently sits higher than that of last year. However, we see very different paths throughout the year based on the individual line.

This year, pricing for the frozen 16 lbs. toms was actually lower than the values in 2024 during January and part of February. Midway through February prices began to climb and rise year-over-year (YOY) until they reached today's levels...

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Dec 11 11:08 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: A Preview of Christmas Favorites

Few protein items embody the year-end holiday spirit quite like the classic Christmas ham and the standing rib roast. These iconic centerpiece proteins often dominate holiday tables, shaping both wholesale market trends and retail advertising strategies.

This year, the wholesale beef rib market kicked off its seasonal rise in late July, climbing 32% between July 28 and Thanksgiving week. Since then, the market has shifted into typical year-end procurement mode with a generally steady undertone, and holiday buying is expected to wrap soon...

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Dec 10 9:08 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Shopping Lifts Foodservice and Grocery Demand

December is when most consumers fully embrace the holiday spirit—and start spending accordingly.

This year's holiday spending is off to a strong start, with record shopper turnout and a surge in online activity. Adobe Analytics reports that total online sales from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday amounted to $44.2 billion, up nearly 8% from last year.

Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation reports that a record 202.9 million people shopped over the Thanksgiving weekend, up from 197 million last year. Supermarkets were the most popular destination at 47%, followed closely by online shopping at 45%...

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Dec 3 8:35 AM, Expana

North Carolina Turkeys, Gobble and Waddle, Pardoned by President Trump

WASHINGTON — National Turkey Federation (NTF) Chairman Jay Jandrain, president and CEO of Butterball, LLC, presented the National Thanksgiving Turkeys named Gobble and Waddle to President Donald Trump today during the 78th National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation. After receiving their formal pardons from the president in the White House’s Rose Garden Club, Gobble and Waddle will return to North Carolina to live at North Carolina State University in Raleigh...

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Nov 26 6:52 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Turkey Breast Prices Break Correlation Pattern

In the turkey market, there is a disconnect between the value of breast meat and bone-in breasts. During November, the five-year average price difference between fresh tom breast meat and 8-10 lb. institutional-sized breasts hovers between $3.39 and $3.42. This year, the difference for the week prior to Thanksgiving sits at $5.18, 51.5% higher than the five-year average.

While one might be tempted to think lower institutional-sized breast prices are contributing to this large price spread between the two items...

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Nov 25 11:03 AM, Expana

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Ep 37 - Thanksgiving Dinner Index Up 28% in 2025

Expana presents Agri-Food for Thought, the podcast series for agriculture and food professionals.

On today's episode, we dive into Expana's 2025 Thanksgiving Dinner Index. 2025 has been an extraordinary year. When we look back, we’ve seen unprecedented geopolitical events unfold, tariffs, trade agreements, inflation and other economic uncertainties. How has this impacted Thanksgiving staples? Listen now!

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Nov 25 10:00 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Wholesale Fresh Turkey Quotations Up 31% Year-Over-Year as Supply Tightens

Fresh wholesale turkey quotations currently sit at a value of $1.77, the second-highest seasonal price on record. This is up 31.1% year-over-year (YOY) and is 10.0% above the 5-year average for this time period. Meanwhile, last week’s retail values for fresh 16-24 lbs. turkeys were only higher than those of last year at the same time, by 19.5%.

In 2024, the retail value of fresh whole turkeys was held above the wholesale value up until the week...

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Nov 20 11:08 AM, Expana

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

The Retail Rundown: Cheaper Turkeys Hit Shelves Despite Wholesale Price Surge

This Thanksgiving, holiday shoppers might spot some relief: retail turkey prices have eased, even as wholesale values climb toward near-record highs.

Ongoing challenges, such as persistent bird flu outbreaks and relatively low hatch rates, have limited production all year, leaving supplies exceptionally thin ahead of the holiday.

While retailers secure turkeys well in advance to build cold-storage inventories, frozen whole-bird stocks in 2025 remain near seasonal record lows, leaving little supply cushion...

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Nov 19 8:50 AM, Expana

Farm Bureau: Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Declines

Cooking a Thanksgiving dinner for your friends and family will cost less than last year, marking the third straight year of price declines. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 40th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of Thanksgiving staples that make up a classic holiday feast for 10, which is $55.18 or about $5.52 per person.

This is a 5% decrease from 2024. Three years of declines don’t fully erase dramatic increases that led to a record-high cost of $64.05 in 2022.

The centerpiece on most Thanksgiving tables – the turkey...

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Nov 19 7:15 AM, Expana

American Farm Bureau Federation

ANALYSIS: Turkey Consumption Falls as Production Drops Even Faster Amid Supply Constraints

According to the USDA, US per capita consumption of turkey meat for 2025 has a projected figure of 13 lbs., down 17.2% from 2020. Yet the projected percentage of turkey meat used in the US compared to ready-to-cook (RTC) production is 94.1%, up 3.5 percentage points from 2020. This suggests that while American consumers are lowering the amount of turkey they consume in line with the extremely limited supplies, these two metrics are not decreasing at the same rate, with turkey production falling more rapidly than per capita consumption...

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Nov 14 8:11 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Turkey Promotions Climb as Holiday Demand Takes Hold

Turkey ads now make up nearly 4% of protein features this week and are on pace to capture a larger share next week as seasonal demand gathers momentum. Beef holds 23.8% of ad space, pork accounts for 22.8%, and chicken eased to 19%—down one point from last week. Eggs have 3% of this week’s buying opportunities, up one point compared to the week prior.

Within the turkey category, ads for frozen whole birds and fresh or frozen parts are evenly split, each accounting for 28% of turkey features...

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Nov 5 9:12 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Elevated Turkey Prices Influence Demand While Supplies Remain Limited

With the exception of hearts and gizzards, turkey items across the board are more expensive this year than they were last year. Current quotations for fresh thigh meat are up 60.8% year-over-year (YOY), which is a modest gain compared to fresh drums (108.5%) and breast meat (264.6%). Budgets are stretched thin and credit limits are tested as buyers try to secure production in a barren market landscape.

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Oct 30 10:44 AM, Expana

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Rush Builds Amid Tight Turkey Supplies

As November approaches, the holiday retail rush is underway, and all eyes are on the season’s centerpiece: turkey. Tight supplies and near-record wholesale prices have shaped this year’s turkey market, stirring concerns about Thanksgiving availability.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, has intensified supply pressures, with cold storage inventories at near historic lows. Many processors are reporting major production shortages heading into the holiday season as the number of turkeys harvested year-to-date hovers at an all-time low, according to Expana's market reporters...

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Oct 29 9:00 AM, Expana

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana’s Weekly Rundown #32

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #32."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

This week, the US administration has continued to pressure trading partners like India to curb imports of Russian oil as to sanction the country during its war with Ukraine, cited Expana...

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Oct 23 12:20 PM, Expana

Citrus Fruit

Soybean

Aluminum

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

US Department Of Agriculture (USDA)

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production Shortages Cloud Holiday Preparations

We are now just over five weeks away from Thanksgiving and the turkey and retail industries are trying to prepare. However, some members of the star team appear to be missing.

Whole turkeys are notably tight heading into November this year. While September’s USDA cold storage report has yet to be released, frozen holdings from March through August were situated at the lowest seasonal levels on record. Many processors are already reporting major shortages of production heading into the holiday season as the number of turkeys harvested year-to-date hovers at an all-time low...

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Oct 23 9:33 AM, Expana

National Turkey Federation

The Retail Rundown: Poultry Promotions Pick Up Steam

Retailers are leaning into autumn demand with meat and poultry features this week, as consumers favor home-cooked meals and prepare for the holiday season.

With Thanksgiving a little more than five weeks away, early holiday promotions are starting to surface. Turkey features are gaining momentum, now accounting for 5% of total ad space, up two points from the previous week.

Retail buying opportunities for seafood and beef held steady week-over-week at 27.5% and 22.2%, respectively. Pork promotions dipped to 21.4% as National Pork Month wraps up, while chicken features rose to 19.4%.

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Oct 22 8:42 AM, Expana

M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Breakfast Burrito and Wrap Products Due to Possible Listeria

M.C.I. Foods Inc., a Santa Fe Springs, Calif., establishment, is recalling approximately 91,585 pounds of specific lots of ready-to-eat (RTE) breakfast burrito and wrap products containing egg that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The individually packaged and bulk packed frozen breakfast burritos and wraps were produced between September 17, 2025, and October 14, 2025. A list of the products subject to recall can be found here...

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Oct 20 6:39 AM, Expana

NTF Statement on the Government Shutdown

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) released the following statement on the United States government shutdown:

“Mexico and Canada are key export markets for the U.S. turkey industry. The USMCA will help to ensure that America’s turkey growers and processors have fair access to these markets and takes important steps to stabilize the U.S.’s trade relationship with our neighbors. The agreement will result in a 29 percent increase in U.S. exports to Canada. Robust export markets are vital in growing the turkey industry. When given the chance to compete head-to-head on price and quality, U.S. turkey producers have shown their ability to respond in providing the world with wholesome, delicious turkey...

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Oct 15 8:00 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: HPAI Turkey Update — Week of October 5, 2025

Outbreak summary

On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, approximately 2.82 million turkeys have been lost to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in 2025. That is up 115% year-over-year (YOY) and down 62% from 2022, when the outbreak began. Of the turkeys impacted this year, 3% have been commercial breeder hens, 1% have been commercial breeder replacement hens, and 96% have been commercial meat birds. Thirteen states have reported unique outbreaks YTD, one fewer than the largest YTD value since the start of the...

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Oct 15 7:55 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: Turkey Processing Hits New Seasonal Low as Prices Soar to Record Highs

In June and July, the turkey industry had a couple of months of relief from the seasonal all-time low numbers of turkeys being processed since August of last year. However, the headcount processed this August fell 4.1% below last year, once again marking a new seasonal low. This isn’t necessarily surprising considering that four months prior, net poult placements were 3.9% lower year-over-year (YOY). Additionally, just over 55,000 turkeys were lost at the end of August...

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Oct 9 8:12 AM, Expana

US Food Safety And Inspection Service (FSIS)

The Retail Rundown: Strategic Promotions Boost October Protein Opportunities

October offers a strategic window for retailers to tap into increased consumer demand for protein, thanks to the alignment of seasonal supply, promotional campaigns, and competitive pricing.

National Pork Month, observed this month, coincides with a peak in pork production—averaging about 2.5 billion pounds over the past five years, up nearly 9% from September.

This seasonal surplus enables retailers to run targeted promotions that pair attractive pricing with educational content, driving both consumer engagement and sales...

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Oct 8 8:05 AM, Expana

Vertical Cold Storage's Strategic Expansion with First Customs Bonded Warehouse

In today's global trade environment, customs bonded warehousing has become increasingly appealing to businesses seeking financial flexibility.

Tariffs can significantly inflate costs, but by deferring duties until products are sold in the US market or re-exported, companies can optimize cash flow and gain strategic operational advantages.

Vertical Cold Storage, a leader in cold storage and logistics for the food and beverage industry, is marking an achievement with the full licensing of its first customs bonded warehouse.

The company strategically chose to expand at its...

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Oct 8 8:00 AM, Expana

Warehousing Operation

New Report From FMI Reveals a Significant Shift in Consumer Dining Habits

A new report from The Food Industry Association (FMI) uncovers a significant shift in dining habits.

The study shows that consumers are increasingly choosing deli-prepared foods in place of restaurant meals.

The Power of Foodservice at Retail 2025 examines the factors influencing consumer motivation for choosing deli-prepared options, offering insights from the consumer's perspective on foodservice at retail.

Data from the report revealed that 53% of Americans now take a hybrid approach to creating meals; combining deli-prepared options with other items...

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Oct 8 7:54 AM, Expana

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Ready-To-Eat Meals That May Be Contaminated With Listeria

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for FSIS-inspected ready-to-eat meals produced by FreshRealm containing a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated ingredient, specifically spinach, that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm).

FSIS expects additional affected products to be identified and will update this public health alert as more information becomes available. Consumers should check back frequently.

The following products are subject to the...

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Oct 7 10:09 AM, Expana

Meal Delivery

Hellofresh

US Department Of Agriculture (USDA)

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage Edges Higher MOM Amid Supply Constraints

The total volume of turkey in cold storage was still lower year-over-year (YOY) in August, following a trend that has been in place all year. With that said, the figures more closely approached those of last year than they had previously, with a 3.1% month-over-month (MOM) increase in holdings which is quite a bit higher than the 5-year average increase from July to August of 0.7%. However, despite this slight increase, cold storage inventories remained at an all-time low...

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Oct 2 7:45 AM, Expana

Exploring Dynamics in Poultry and Turkey Markets - Agri-Food Americas 2025

Commodity experts showcased in-depth analytical presentations from their respective markets on day two of Agri-Food Americas 2025, held in Chicago, Illinois, from September 23rd to 24th.

Taking center stage in the main ballroom, Russ Whitman, Director of Market Reporting at Expana, captivated the audience with a detailed analysis of the poultry market.

Describing chicken as "the protein that can't do any wrong," Whitman emphasized its competitive edge over beef, thanks to a compelling price advantage. Chicken's popularity continues to surge, with August's retail data...

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Sep 29 9:22 AM, Expana

Chicken

Agri-Food Americas 2025

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #28

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #28."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

On Tuesday in New York, US President Trump gave remarks to the United Nations General Assembly, via the White House live stream...

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Sep 25 1:33 PM, Expana

Amino Acids Feed Grade

Citrus Fruit

Pea Protein

Aluminum

ANALYSIS: Rising Demand for Protein Supports Turkey Sales Even as Prices Remain Elevated

It has been suggested that the increasing beef prices could drive up sales of similar items such as turkey and chicken lunchmeat, as well as ground items. However, there’s also been concern that the all-time high prices of turkey breast meat could squash consumer demand. Interestingly, if we look at a comparison of turkey and beef in terms of fresh packaged lunchmeat and ground, we see that they are performing similarly robustly at the retail counter. While it does not appear that turkey is replacing beef in these sectors, the phrase “a rising tide floats all boats” does seem to apply...

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Sep 25 7:40 AM, Expana

The Retail Rundown: Fall Promotions Highlight Beef Roasts, Pork Ahead of October

Fall retail trends have been unfolding for several weeks, with grocers promoting cooler-weather favorites and leaning into the early wave of seasonal excitement—embraced by some shoppers and resisted by those reluctant to let go of summer.

With the season officially underway as of Monday, beef roasts are seeing stronger promotion, now accounting for 28% of total beef ads compared with 24% two weeks ago. Even so, steaks remain the top feature item, followed by ground beef...

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Sep 24 9:15 AM, Expana

ANALYSIS: HPAI Turkey Update - Week of September 14th, 2025

Year-to-date (YTD) losses of turkeys due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have reached approximately 2.25 million birds in 2025. This represents a 71% increase year-over-year (Y-O-Y), but remains 65% below the peak loss levels experienced in 2022, when the outbreak first emerged. Of the turkeys impacted this year, commercial meat birds account for the vast majority (96%), with commercial breeder hens and breeder replacement hens comprising 3% and 1% respectively.

Geographically, the outbreak has affected 12 states to date in 2025—one fewer than the record YTD count but nevertheless reflecting a 33% increase YoY and an 8% decline from 2022 levels. The affected...

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Sep 23 7:40 AM, Expana

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

HPAI

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Bird Flu

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Turkey Wrap Product Due To Possible Listeria

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for a ready-to-eat (RTE) turkey wrap product due to concerns that the product may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. A recall was not requested because the affected product is no longer available for purchase.

The RTE turkey wrap product was produced on September 10, 2025. The following product is subject to the public health alert [view sample labels]:

10-oz. clear plastic clamshell packages containing “TRADER...

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Sep 22 6:49 AM, Expana

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #26

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #26."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

Despite 50% tariffs remaining on Brazil and India, the Indian Prime Minister Modi and US President Trump expressed positivity that the respective trade teams would reach a deal, according to their latest social media...

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Sep 11 11:31 AM, Expana

US Department Of Agriculture (USDA)