Cost of Thanksgiving meal for 10 has declined in past year, Farm Bureau says

Average prices (AFBF graphic)

It should cost less to host Thanksgiving this year, according to a survey by the American Farm Bureau Federation. The annual report shows that the average cost this year to feed 10 people will be $49.87, down from $50.11 in 2015. The average price of a 16 pound turkey this year is $22.74, about two cents per pound less than last year.

Dr. John Newton, AFBF director of market intelligence, said in a statement: "Consumers will pay less than $5 per person for a classic Thanksgiving dinner this year. We have seen farm prices for many foods, including turkeys, fall from the higher levels of recent years. This translates into lower retail prices for a number of items as we prepare for Thanksgiving and confirms that U.S. consumers benefit from an abundant, high-quality and affordable food supply."

The survey meal includes enough turkey, bread stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and coffee and milk to serve 10 people, with plenty of leftovers, states AFBH. (Read more)