Here's What People Are Forgoing for Thanksgiving Due to Inflation

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and according to Butterball's new Togetherness Report, we're all worried about the same things when it comes to our holiday feasts.

In October, Butterball shared the findings of its Butterball Togetherness Report: 2024 Thanksgiving Outlook, which showcases our collective hosting styles, preferred mains and sides, and one worry we all share: How inflation will affect our meals. 

"The impact of inflation remains top of mind as people consider their Thanksgiving plans, but it’s clear turkey will still be at the center of the table," the report stated. "While 98% of consumers expect inflation to impact their holiday plans, an increase from 79% in 2023, savings on the celebration will be minimal."

According to the report, nearly half (44%) of respondents to its survey expect inflation to have even more of an impact than last year. Still, most people (52%) are not planning to make changes to their menus to save. However, those who are planning to manage their budgets say they plan to save on "non-food items such as paper goods or décor (18%), as well as side dishes (17%)."

As for other insights Butterball gleaned from its survey, it found that 86% of people plan to dine with nine people at their table, and 87% of hosts plan to serve turkey this year. And that's good news for the 51% of people who said it's their favorite part of the meal. Though a close 44% said stuffing is their favorite, followed by 32% who said pie, and 27% who cited potatoes as their must-have.   

“It’s clear people are committed to celebrating Thanksgiving with turkey at the center of the table again this year, despite outside influences, like inflation,” Rebecca Welch, director of retail and international brand management for Butterball, shared. And if you need a little help on how to cook that turkey right, Welch shared that Butterball is bringing back its famed Turkey Talk-Line for its 43rd year for all your meaty questions. “Butterball is proud to help bring people together for Thanksgiving celebrations and support holiday hosts with our Butterball Turkey Talk-Line.”   

The line opens Friday, November 1, with experts at the ready via phone, text, chat, and social channels to answer any and all questions. See more and ask your questions via butterball.com.