The price of Thanksgiving meals continues to rise to new heights. Now more than ever, we need alternatives for the meal. The American Farm Bureau Federation said that food prices have risen 3.7 percent this year alone.
Every year, the price increases for Thanksgiving meals, and this year the price increased almost 14 percent. Although, with holiday discounts, shoppers have the opportunity to lower the price of the overall meal.
Turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, etc. are all seeing price increases due to inflation. Therefore, we have come up with a few ways to decrease the price of your meal as well as some substitutes for the popular Friendsgivings that will be held.
The number one tip for decreasing the average price of thanksgiving meals is buying store-brand items. Another tip that has been mentioned is purchasing larger turkeys because the price per pound will be a better deal. This is due to the fact that grocery stores will have a larger stock of big turkeys with the expectation of larger gatherings after last year’s COVID-19 Thanksgiving.
Some tips that have nothing to do with rising prices are shopping early, keeping your gathering smaller, and finding alternatives for more expensive items. According to the AFBF, the average meal cost for a family of ten this thanksgiving is $53.31.
Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving have a large number of alternatives that will help you save this holiday season.
“Recently we had a group of 14 friends so instead of turkey we did a chicken nugget platter from Chick-Fila” -Kylie Novitt
Gatherings of around 8 individuals can get a 64-nugget platter for the occasions at a respectable price of $31.00. The good thing about an alternative such as this is that they have a variety of platters that can serve up to 25 people.
Forsyth Families are also making switches from Turkey to Ham for this holiday season such as the Bedora family. Gabe Kellerman said, “My family has decided to cook prime rib and ham this season as we have a larger gathering and are looking to save.”
Traditional Thanksgiving meals are have changed from prior years as we see more and more families changing the main dish from turkey towards new things. According to the Keivani family, this has nothing to do with a cost yet they simply will enjoy smoking a brisket more than cooking a turkey.
This holiday season can be expected to be busier than 2020 due to the fact that vaccination rates have risen and that traveling is predicted to increase. So, shop early, stay safe, and enjoy quality time with those you hold close.