FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2000
SOUTH CAROLINA TURKEYS RAISED DOWN FROM 1999
(COLUMBIA)---It’s time to talk turkey! Consumers want to know the best prices, and they should know the best ways to select and prepare their Thanksgiving turkey to protect their families from foodborne illnesses.
According to the preliminary reports of the SC Agricultural Statistics Service, SOUTH CAROLINA turkeys raised during 2000 is estimated to be 9,100,000, down 4 percent from the 9,500,000 raised during 1999. Average price last year for turkey was 42 cents/lb. (live weight returned to producers). Average price for 2000 has not yet been reported.
The preliminary estimate of turkeys raised in the United States during 2000 is 273 million, the same as was raised during 1999.
SC ranked 7th in the nation for turkey production in 1999. NC was # 1 in the nation in 1999, producing 1.4 billion lbs. or about 1/5 of the US total. With the advent of last year’s hurricane, the NC statistics may be somewhat different this year.
For additional statistical information on turkeys call: Stan Cheek, Agricultural Statistician, 803-765-5333.
For retail turkey prices call: Doug Stone, Advertising Director for W. Lee Flowers, Inc. (IGA). He says that turkey prices are up somewhat this year. (Call him at 843-389-2731 for a comment. W. Lee Flowers is headquartered in Lake City, but they have stores all over the state.)
Also, call the SC Poultry Federation - Connie Smith, Executive Director, 799-4700 for more information on the poultry industry.
You may want to check out this site for selection and preparation etc. www.turkeyfed.org or call Becky Walton, SC Department of Agriculture, 803-734-2182.