Turkey Producers Optimistic Heading Towards Thanksgiving

Oct 09, 2020

With large gatherings being discouraged, Thanksgiving may look a lot different for many families this year.

Helga Wheddon is the general manager of Manitoba Turkey Producers.

She was asked about the impact of COVID-19 on the turkey sector.

"The turkey sector actually saw a temporary surge in demand at the retail level at the beginning, but processors have now seen a reduction in turkey sales as compared to last year but basically due to a decrease in the food service and full service retail deli counters. For whole turkey sales they held up very well this past Easter so we are cautiously optimistic about Thanksgiving."

Wheddon says for smaller gatherings or individuals, smaller turkey portions are available for purchase.

There are 53 turkey farmers registered in Manitoba, with a single processor Exceldor.

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