With Thanksgiving approaching, many shoppers are noticing higher prices as they plan their holiday meals. Headlines have warned of a potential surge in turkey costs, prompting questions about what’s driving the increases.

Experts said the main factor is avian flu. Lori Ann LaRocco, a CNBC reporter, explains that outbreaks have affected turkey flocks for months. The birds available now were raised earlier in the year, causing the impact of the flu to carry into the holiday season.

According to the Purdue College of Agriculture, wholesale turkey prices are up 75% since October. Retail prices are also projected to be higher, with turkeys averaging around $2.05 per pound. That is roughly a 25% increase over last year.

Grocery store prices vary depending on when chains secured their supply.

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