The price for a Thanksgiving dinner in Louisiana is the second lowest in the U.S. according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Louisiana Farm Bureau spokesman Avery Davidson says the average cost for a classic 11-item meal for approximately ten guests is $44.70.
“Almost $10. $9.94 less than the national average, which was $55.18,” Davidson said.
The cost is down $3 from last year, but Davidson says some prices have dropped while others have risen. Turkey was the biggest faller along with stuffing, but costs of ham, sweet potatoes and vegetables are up.
“We’re very fortunate in Louisiana that we are so close to where a lot of these things are grown. We’ve got good transportation, which is what’s going to drive up a lot of that cost. We’re very fortunate that we’re paying less for most of those items,” Davidson explained.
Davidson encourages Louisianians to remember farmers this Thanksgiving. Farmers receive just 9.1¢ of every dollar spent on food, and their share of an average Louisiana Thanksgiving dinner is just $5.
“This is a time of giving thanks. Giving thanks to God for the bounty we have, giving thanks to farmers for growing the food that is on our table, and being thankful for one another that we can come together and enjoy such a meal,” Davidson said.
