Your Tennessee Thanksgiving meal will cost more this year

UT Extension office reports local prices are going up while national prices go down

KNOXVILLE, Tennessee (WDEF) – The folks at the U-T Extension office say this is going to be a more expensive Thanksgiving in Tennessee.

Despite national trends, they say the cost of a typical Thanksgiving dinner is up this year in our state.

10.5%

The Extension office team says their list of groceries is longer than the national list, like ham.

They say the average cost of a Tennessee Thanksgiving dinner will be $128.50, which is up from $116 last year.

The major jumps this year are from avian flu in the turkey and egg industries and more expensive dairy products.

“The 22 items on the shopping list included the main ingredients needed to serve traditional turkey (the team priced whole turkeys, not turkey breasts) and stuffing, cranberry sauce, ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, English pea salad, deviled eggs, pumpkin pie with whipped cream and rolls. While some families may serve different dishes, like cornbread dressing instead of stuffing, this analysis helps Tennessee consumers budget for the holidays based on the cost of popular Tennessee dishes.”

Where you shop may also matter.

Supercenters were the cheapest ($103) followed by independent groceries ($118).

The most expensive meal come from conventional supermarkets ($153).

Of course, the major expense is the meat.

Turkey averages $27.37 and ham is $26.24 which are both up this year.

But the Extension experts say “Always plan your holiday meal before you head to the grocery store and take advantage of specials and coupons on items on your list.”

Also, the more fruit and veggies you eat, the better for you and your budget.