Turkeys more expensive this year, Purdue economist says

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A Purdue University agricultural economist says Thanksgiving food shoppers will find adequate supplies of turkeys but possibly at higher prices, depending on the type and whether grocers pass increases on to customers.

Corinne Alexander tracks food price trends and says wholesale prices of turkeys are expected to be 8 percent to 10 percent higher than last year. She says the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts wholesale prices for Eastern market whole turkey will be between $1.12 and $1.16 per pound this quarter compared with $1.05 per pound at this time last year.

She says the higher prices are being driven primarily by higher feed costs following the drought of 2012.

Alexander says many stores will feature turkeys at below cost or offer special prices for frequent shoppers or large birds.