Summary
Americans are seeing changes in Thanksgiving meal prices, with Walmart advertising lower costs for its meal kit this year. However, experts note that while meal kits seem cheaper, they contain fewer items and use generic brands. Official data indicates that prices for turkeys and other Thanksgiving staples like potatoes and apples are rising, mainly due to avian flu impacts and inflation.
Key Facts
- Walmart's Thanksgiving meal kit is priced lower this year, advertised at $4 per person for 10 people.
- The kit contains fewer items (20 this year versus 29 last year) and uses more generic brands.
- Official data from the USDA predicts turkey prices to be about 40% higher due to avian flu affecting supply.
- Avian flu has led to the culling of entire flocks when infections are detected, reducing turkey availability.
- Other staples like potatoes, rolls, and apples have price increases outpacing the average inflation rate.
- Cranberry sauce prices have risen by 22% compared to last year.
- Consumer confidence in the economy has declined to its lowest level since April.
- Wine prices are mixed, with domestic production leading to lower costs, but European imports face a 15% increase due to tariffs.
