More Money for Less Turkey: Price of Meal Increases

Nov. 20, 2007 — -- The rising costs for auto and airplane travel already has some holiday travelers fretting. But once people arrive to their Thanksgiving Day destinations and begin to prepare for their dinners, they will find the cost of their turkey day feast has increased, too.

The American Farm Bureau said the average Thanksgiving dinner for 10 will cost $42.26, which is up 11 percent from last year.

Per person, the price of a Thanksgiving meal will cost a little more than $4, according to the bureau.

"That's less than a value meal at almost any fast food restaurant. It remains a tremendous bargain," said Jim Sartwelle, of the American Farm Bureau.

Higher energy costs involved in refrigerating and transporting the large birds and dairy items are the biggest reason for the rising costs.

Judy Inman already has begun to feel the pinch as she plans for a dinner for eight.

"It isn't going to be macaroni and cheese, but we're real close on some things," said the grandmother. "I was really fortunate to be one of the people involved in the price war on turkeys and was able to get one at a very, very reasonable price."

Not everyone has been as lucky as Inman. But there are ways for consumers to save funds on their banquet.

For example, buyers should consider the size of the turkey they plan to purchase. A smaller bird may be the best bet unless they plan to make good use of their leftovers, according to Maryland Cooperative Extension Service nutrition educator Jodi Balis.

Purchasers also may want to consider buying only a turkey breast instead of the whole bird.

This saves people money because they are avoiding waste, Balis said.

Another way to spend less this year is to use less expensive ingredients. For example, many serve green beans as part of their Thanksgiving meal, but "Good Morning America" found asparagus on sale at a lower price.

Potato prices also are down about 5 percent compared to last year.