Farmer Share of Traditional Thanksgiving Meal Just Pennies

WASHINGTON, DC – With the Thanksgiving holiday just over a week away, many families will prepare a traditional meal featuring turkey, dressing, and the sides.

According to the National Farmers Union (NFU), while the meal is expected to retail for $50.62 this year, farmers will receive only seven percent ($3.57).

Mashed potatoes will earn a farmer 16 percent of the retail price, followed by frozen corn at 14 percent, and a 10 percent return on the boneless ham and canned cranberries.

Although the price of the turkey (11 lb frozen) this season is less than last year at $21.89, the farmer will only receive three percent of the value (66¢).

Included in the 2023 Thanksgiving Farmer’s Share numbers are:
Turkey, 11 lb frozen: Retail Price – $21.89, Farmer’s Share – $0.66
Mashed Potatoes, 5lb bag: Retail Price – $3.99, Farmer’s Share – $0.64
Sweet Corn, 16oz frozen: Retail Price – $2.99, Farmer’s Share – $0.41
Stuffing, 12oz box: Retail Price – $3.99, Farmer’s Share – $0.09
Boneless Ham, 2lb: Retail Price – $12.98, Farmer’s Share – $1.32
Pumpkin Pie Filling, 15oz can: Retail Price – $1.79, Farmer’s Share – $0.16
Cranberries, 12oz: Retail Price – $2.99, Farmer’s Share – $0.29
(SOURCE: National Farmers Union)