Households in the UK face a potential crisis this Christmas as a severe shortage of turkey threatens to disrupt traditional festive meals. This situation arises from a “super strain” of bird flu that has significantly impacted poultry farms across the country. Since October 2023, more than 30 cases of the virus have been reported, leading to widespread concern about the availability of this holiday staple.
Rachel Dobson, managing director of Lynx Purchasing, which supplies food to restaurants, highlighted the challenges the industry is facing this season. She stated, “Avian flu means there are shortages of supply from both Europe and South America, which supply much of the seasonal demand for turkeys in the UK market.” As a result, many suppliers are hesitating to confirm prices or availability for turkey orders.
The impact of these shortages is already being felt. Dobson indicated that hospitality operators should prepare for significantly higher turkey prices this year. “Operators may end up receiving fewer turkeys than they ordered, being sent smaller birds, or even being told that no supplies are available,” she added. The uncertainty surrounding turkey availability has left many in the food sector bracing for a challenging Christmas period.
Prof. Ian Brown, head of avian virology at the Pirbright Institute, described the situation as concerning. Speaking to the BBC earlier this month, he commented, “Essentially, we’ve got a virus that’s incredibly what we call ‘fit’. It’s highly infectious, it’s very well adapted to birds, which makes it almost a super strain.” This potent strain of avian flu poses a significant threat to poultry health and production.
Retailers are also feeling the strain. Sainsbury’s announced that it has had to reduce its selection of turkey crowns this festive season due to ongoing supply issues. The reduced availability may lead consumers to seek alternatives or adjust their holiday plans accordingly.
In Ceredigion, Kate Postance, owner of Postance Poultry, expressed her deep concerns regarding her flock. With 500 free-range turkeys and 3,000 chickens currently in “flockdown” to shield them from the disease, she remarked, “I’m really worried – if any of our birds contracted it, I don’t see a way back for us.” Postance emphasized the need for a solution, saying, “I think we live in hope that someone, somewhere, will find a vaccine.”
As Christmas approaches, the implications of the turkey shortage extend beyond just logistics; they resonate with cultural significance. For many families, turkey is a central component of their holiday celebrations, and the prospect of fewer birds or higher prices is causing anxiety.
The situation remains fluid, and stakeholders across the supply chain are hoping for a resolution. Meanwhile, consumers are urged to stay informed about potential changes in turkey availability as the festive season draws closer.
