The Great Thanksgiving Debate: Is the Cost of Turkey Truly Down?
As we approach Thanksgiving, a holiday centered around food and family, a controversial topic has emerged: the cost of the traditional feast. President Trump has made bold claims about the affordability of Thanksgiving dinner, but is it really as cheap as he says?
Let’s dive into the facts and uncover the truth behind this year’s Thanksgiving meal basket.
CLAIM: Walmart’s Thanksgiving meal basket proves a 25% decrease in costs compared to last year.
THE VERDICT: Misleading, to say the least. While the numbers might suggest a significant drop, a closer inspection reveals a different story.
Walmart’s 2025 meal basket, priced under $40 for 10 people, is indeed cheaper than the 2024 basket, which cost around $56 for eight. But here’s where it gets controversial: the baskets contain vastly different items and quantities.
This year’s basket includes only 15 items, a stark contrast to the 29 items in last year’s offering. It’s missing key dessert and savory components, and even the included products have been substituted or reduced in quantity. For instance, the 2024 basket promised a 10-16 pound turkey, while this year’s is a mere 13.5 pounds.
David Anderson, a livestock economist, sheds light on this strategy: “It’s not a straightforward comparison. Retailers like Walmart are employing clever tactics to attract customers.”
And this is the part most people miss: the impact of these substitutions and reductions. While the overall cost might be lower, it implies that the cost of food items has increased significantly. Anderson adds, “It’s a clever marketing move, but it also highlights the rising prices of food.”
The White House has also cited cheaper deals at other retailers, but even these offers come with their own set of substitutions and comparisons. For instance, Target’s four-person meal, while priced similarly to last year, substitutes key items, making it a less than ideal comparison.
Economists like Anderson have raised concerns about the price of turkey specifically. Wholesale prices are up, with some reports indicating a 75% increase since October 2024. However, due to advanced contracting, certain retailers might offer lower prices to customers, creating a discrepancy between wholesale and retail prices.
So, is Thanksgiving dinner truly cheaper this year? It depends on your perspective and the items you prioritize. While the overall cost might be down, the individual items and their quantities have changed significantly.
What’s your take on this Thanksgiving debate? Do you think the cost of the traditional feast has truly decreased, or is this a clever marketing ploy? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss!