Thanksgiving dinner costs 12% more than 2020

INDIANAPOLIS — Hoosier shoppers can expect to spend about 12% more at the grocery store this year compared to last year, according to Indiana Farm Bureau’s Thanksgiving market basket survey.

The average meal will cost less than $5.50 per person, which is less than 1% over the national average.

“There is no question that this has been a tough year,” said Isabella Chism, second vice president at INFB. “Coming off the heels of the pandemic, widespread supply chain issues are pushing prices higher and the economy is stretched.

“This year’s Thanksgiving market basket reflects what Hoosiers are seeing when they go to their local grocery stores. However, the increased price of Thanksgiving dinner in Indiana is comparable to costs across the rest of the country.”

The total market basket price of $53.58 includes a 16-pound turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls, peas, a carrot and celery veggie tray, whole milk, cranberries, whipping cream, ingredients for pumpkin pie and miscellaneous baking items.

Farmers continue to receive a smaller piece of the pie.

“In the mid-1970s, farmers on average received more than 30 cents on the dollar for consumer retail food purchases,” Chism said. “We’ve seen a steady decline from year to year since.

“Hoosier farmers continue to find ways to streamline their operations and decrease costs of production to accommodate for this decline, while still providing safe, affordable food for Hoosiers and families all over the world.”

Fast Facts

• The farmer’s share of this $53.58 market basket is less than $5.

• Shoppers can expect to pay just under $1.58 per pound for a whole turkey, or about $25.22 for a 16-pound bird.

• Three items on the shopping list are more expensive in Indiana this year than they are nationally — a 16-pound turkey, stuffing and pie shells.

• Alternatively, most items on the shopping list came in less than the national average, most notably sweet potatoes, whole milk, whipping cream and peas.

For those who prefer a Thanksgiving ham, expect to pay $11.13 for a 4-pound ham, compared to $10.60 in 2020.

The survey was conducted in late October-early November by volunteer shoppers across the state.

Shoppers were asked to look for the best possible prices, without taking advantage of special promotional coupons or purchase deals.

Indiana’s survey was completed in conjunction with a national survey administered by the American Farm Bureau Federation.

To view the national report, visit tinyurl.com/tzxe88xk.