Avian Flu in turkey flocks drove prices higher last year as millions of birds died. Egg prices were dramatically higher too. Inflation was higher overall - but the increase in turkey prices was even higher.
This year, wholesale prices for turkey have dropped as much as 50% as the avian flu has waned. David P. Anderson, professor and Extension Economist at Texas A&M University says that retail prices for turkey are likely to follow wholesale prices lower this Thanksgiving. Although there may not be a direct correlation between wholesale and retail prices, Anderson expects that consumers may see some relief in the cost of the bird in their Thanksgiving meals.