Whole retail turkey consumption between October and December 2023 was the lowest since 1980, at just 4.04 lbs. Other animal protein segments, like beef and pork, are taking note of shifting consumer purchasing behavior. However, the data does not include “no-price” features such as buy one item get one half off or spend a certain dollar amount and receive one center of plate item free (such as a turkey, turkey breast, ham or other). The majority of contracting for Thanksgiving turkeys typically occurs in the first quarter of the year. However, the primary reason for fewer turkey poult placements has been weak profitability for U.S. turkey growers.