Turkey Prices Hold Steady Ahead of Thanksgiving Despite Ongoing Avian Flu Concerns

• 

  Newsroom

• November 26, 2025

• Newsroom

Turkey Prices Hold Steady Ahead of Thanksgiving Despite Ongoing Avian Flu Concerns

Turkey prices across the United States have remained stable for the 2025 Thanksgiving season, despite continued detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in several poultry-producing states. According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and analyses from Reuters, Bloomberg, and AP News, retail prices showed little to no increase compared to last year, easing concerns of a holiday price surge.

Market supply remains resilient

USDA’s most recent Turkey Market Report indicates that producers successfully rebuilt flocks after earlier outbreaks in 2023–2024, maintaining sufficient supply to meet seasonal demand. Bloomberg reports that wholesale frozen turkey prices have stayed “remarkably stable,” supported by steady production and improved biosecurity measures across major farms.

Despite new isolated cases of avian flu detected in commercial turkey operations this fall, Reuters notes that the outbreaks “did not significantly disrupt national supply chains,” allowing retailers to keep prices predictable for consumers.

Retailers avoid major price hikes

According to AP News, major grocery chains have opted to hold or reduce promotional prices to attract holiday shoppers. Some retailers, such as Walmart and Kroger, confirmed that their Thanksgiving pricing strategies aimed to “match or beat” 2024 levels, helping offset broader food inflation.

Industry analysts say that turkey inventories accumulated earlier in the year also helped shield the market from volatility.

USDA: Situation is under control

In a statement, the USDA reaffirmed that avian flu remains “closely monitored and effectively contained,” with rapid-response protocols preventing large-scale flock losses. The agency emphasized that turkey products remain safe to consume, as the virus does not pose a risk through properly handled and cooked poultry.

Economic impact

While turkey prices remained steady, Bloomberg notes modest price increases in side dishes and baked goods, driven by higher costs for eggs, wheat, and sugar. However, economists highlight that the stability of the main Thanksgiving centerpiece provides “welcome relief” to families navigating persistent food inflation.

Outlook

Market watchers anticipate continued price stability through the end of the year, barring a significant escalation in avian flu cases. Producers say they remain focused on strengthening farm-level biosecurity to prevent further spread of HPAI during the winter season.