As Thanksgiving approaches, the National Farmers Union (NFU) has released its updated "Farmer’s Share of the Food Dollar" report. This annual release highlights the disparity between what family farmers earn and what consumers pay for Thanksgiving meal staples.

Rob Larew, NFU President, stated that while consumers may face higher prices for Thanksgiving ingredients this year, these increases do not necessarily benefit America's family farmers and ranchers. He noted that "corporate consolidation has left our agriculture and food systems fragile and uncompetitive," with monopolies dominating various sectors from food processing to farm equipment markets. Larew emphasized the need to recognize the challenges faced by food producers and asserted that "family farmers and ranchers deserve a fair share of the consumer dollar."

The 2024 Farmer’s Share report provides specific figures showing this disparity:

- Turkey: Retail price is $2.42 per pound, with farmers earning $0.06.

- Mashed Potatoes: Retail price is $6.99 for 10 lbs., with farmers earning $1.22.

- Stuffing: Retail price is $4.39 per box, with farmers earning $0.07.

- Pumpkin Pie: Retail price is $4.29 per can, with farmers earning $0.14.

- Cranberries: Retail price is $2.99 per package, with farmers earning $0.86.

- Boneless Ham: Retail price is $15.98 for half a ham, with farmers earning $1.28.

- Sweet Corn: Retail price is $2.99 per package, with farmers earning $0.34.

- Dinner Rolls: Retail price is $3.99 per pack, with farmers earning $0.10.

- Green Beans: Retail price is $5 per pack, with farmers earning $0.98.

The NFU's Fairness for Farmers campaign seeks to address these issues by advocating for stronger antitrust enforcement and increased transparency in order to improve the farmer's share of consumer spending on food.