Chicken wings remain the top game day food choice across the United States
Chicken wings continue to dominate Super Bowl food menus across the United States. Industry estimates project that Americans will consume about 1.48 billion chicken wings while watching the championship game. This total is higher than last year, showing continued growth in demand for wings during major sporting events.
"I think Bradley Cooper is wrong: Football is for food," said NCC spokesperson Tom Super. "Especially when it comes to the Super Bowl, where wings rule the roost. For football fans looking to add protein to their spreads at an affordable price, wings are king of Super Bowl menus."
The scale of this consumption is massive. If placed end to end, the wings would stretch many times between major football stadiums across the country. The total amount is also large enough to circle the Earth several times. Even eating one wing every 30 seconds would take thousands of years to finish them all. Transporting this volume would require thousands of semi-trucks, forming a convoy dozens of miles long.
Retail sales data show strong growth during the playoff season. Across the country, chicken wing purchases increased sharply in both units sold and total sales value. Markets connected to playoff teams also saw strong increases, with higher volumes and consumer demand. Among major cities, some consumers order wings more frequently than others, showing regional differences in eating habits.
One reason for rising demand is affordability. Retail prices for fresh chicken wings have declined slightly compared to last year. Lower feed costs and increased poultry production helped keep prices stable. U.S. chicken producers expanded production, ensuring enough supply for both stores and restaurants.
Cold storage inventories were also lower than normal before the Super Bowl, meaning businesses prepared early to meet expected demand. This planning helped ensure that wings remained available nationwide.
Overall, chicken wings continue to be a popular, affordable protein choice for families. With steady supply and strong demand, wings remain a centerpiece of Super Bowl celebrations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steve-baccon