North Carolina and Minnesota produce the most turkeys for Thanksgiving dinners, according to a new report from Trace One .

North Carolina ranks No. 1 in total production, generating 15.5% of the nation’s turkey by weight. Minnesota follows at 14% of national production and raises more turkeys than any other state.

Indiana (12.9%), Arkansas (7.8%), and Iowa (7.7%) are also major turkey producers.

The report adds that it continues to be a tough time for turkey production. The study shows per capita production has fallen 28%, from a peak of 26.8 pounds per person in 1996 to just 19.3 pounds in 2024.

Researchers attribute the decline to reduced meat consumption and increased interest in plant-based alternatives.

In addition, the report cites a rise in turkey costs from $0.80 per pound i

See Full Page