As if we weren't facing enough bad news going into the official holiday season, with the country in recession, gas prices going back up, grocery prices spiking, baby formula shortages... now it seems it may be difficult to get that holiday turkey.  And if you do get one, expect to pay much more than usual for it.

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According to Forbes:

This year, the flu has killed 44 million birds, including 4.5 million turkeys, or 2.5% of U.S. turkey production. Coupled with the highest inflation in 40 years, which has hit the meat case at double the rate of other consumer products due to higher feed prices and more expensive fuel, analysts predict Thanksgiving will cost more this year because of the flu-diminished turkey supply.

Supply chain issues are just one factor that is affecting the turkey availability for the season. And as they continue to be a problem, they are expected to carry on through the upcoming holiday season.

The Avian Flu has affected 39 states, causes losses of over 40 million birds.  According to the USDA, the Avian Flu has hit poultry producers particularly hard this year.

The return of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in 2022 has affected poultry sectors, including commercial flocks of broilers (chickens raised for meat), egg-laying hens, and turkeys. In the turkey industry, 5.4 million turkeys have been depopulated because of HPAI exposure.

It may be difficult to have that leftover turkey sandwich after thanksgiving.  Knowing our federal government, they'll probably start making all turkeys wear masks.

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