Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without a perfectly roasted turkey taking center stage on the dinner table But have you ever wondered which state consumes the most of these succulent birds during the holiday season? After digging into the data, some fascinating regional differences emerge
The National Turkey Picture
Let’s start by looking at some national-level turkey consumption statistics According to the National Turkey Federation, Americans eat a whopping 46 million turkeys each Thanksgiving That translates to about 736 million pounds of turkey gobbled up across the country. When you break it down per person, the average American consumes around 15 pounds of turkey meat annually.
Turkey production is a major enterprise too. The top turkey producing state, Minnesota, raises around 40-45 million turkeys every year. North Carolina and Arkansas come in second and third. Together the top six turkey producing states generate more than 205 million turkeys annually.
Regional Preferences Drive Consumption
Even though Minnesota produces the most turkeys, it’s not actually the state that consumes the most on Thanksgiving. Regional preferences and local food cultures have a big impact on consumption patterns.
For overall volume, the winner is California. As the most populous state, California has high aggregate turkey consumption driven by its nearly 40 million residents. However, on a per capita basis, California falls down the list.
Midwestern States Lead in Per Capita Consumption
When adjusted for population, Midwestern states rise to the top for turkey consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the top per capita turkey consumers are:
- Missouri (18.2 lbs per person)
- Mississippi (17 lbs per person)
- Iowa (16.8 lbs per person)
- Arkansas (16.7 lbs per person)
- Alabama (16.6 lbs per person)
The first two spots going to Missouri and Mississippi may seem surprising given their modest turkey production. But the data shows that regional food cultures play a key role in driving Turkey Day consumption.
Why Do Midwesterners Love Turkey?
There are several theories that help explain the Midwestern states’ turkey craze. Firstly, these states have an agricultural heritage and many families raise turkeys themselves. Easy access leads to greater consumption. Midwestern cuisine also tends to feature turkey more heavily beyond just Thanksgiving.
Secondly, Thanksgiving itself has strong historical roots in the Midwest. The region is closely tied to the holiday’s origins, which promotes turkey as the centerpiece. Even transplanted Midwesterners often maintain turkey-centric Thanksgiving meals.
Other Notable Turkey Consumers
Beyond the top five states, other areas of the country also consume turkey in sizable quantities. Here are some other significant turkey consumers:
- California: 15.5 lbs per capita
- Texas: 15.1 lbs per capita
- New York: 14.5 lbs per capita
- Florida: 14.3 lbs per capita
- Alaska: 14.1 lbs per capita
Though they may not top the rankings, these states still eat their fair share of turkey on Thanksgiving. Their sheer populations contribute to high overall consumption.
The Takeaway: Turkey Lovers Abound
When all the numbers are tallied, it’s clear Americans have an insatiable appetite for turkey on Thanksgiving. Though preferences vary by region, turkey remains the centerpiece of the holiday feast for most. Minnesota may produce the most birds, but Missouri and Mississippi residents are the biggest turkey connoisseurs. So as you enjoy your Thanksgiving turkey this year, now you know which states will be feasting right alongside you!
Which State Consumes The Most Turkey On Thanksgiving?!
FAQ
Which state raises the most turkeys for Thanksgiving?
Do Californians eat the most turkey in the United States?
Where is turkey eaten the most?
Which US state produces the most turkeys a year?
The United States produces an estimated 240 million turkeys each year, with production peaking in the 1990s. Turkey farming is an activity embraced by many poultry farmers found all over the country. Arkansas, Minnesota, and California are among the major turkey-producing states in the country. Which US State Raises the Most Turkeys?
How many people eat Thanksgiving turkey in November?
Unsurprisingly, the number of turkeys consumed on the fourth Thursday in November is high, and has even risen in recent years despite increased interest in turkey alternatives and plant-based foods. According to the National Turkey Federation, an estimated 88 percent of Americans consume Thanksgiving turkey each year.
How many turkeys are there in Arkansas?
There are an estimated 26 million turkeys in the state. The annual turkey production in the state is about 560 million pounds and valued at $370 million. Turkey rearing in Arkansas is largely practiced in the northern and central regions of the state.
How many turkeys are reared in Minnesota?
Minnesota is the number-one state in rearing turkeys in the United States. There are an estimated 44 million turkeys reared around the state. Turkey farming in Minnesota is a family tradition which transcends several generations. There are about 450 families in the state which are involved in turkey rearing.