Appetizers, desserts on the chopping block for consumers this Thanksgiving: Survey

Some Canadian households will be scaling back their Thanksgiving meal plans, according to a new survey from Field Agent Canada.

The company surveyed 852 families about their plans for October, and whether inflation will play a role in their holiday menu.

Of those households, 85% plan to celebrate the holiday year and 73% expect to welcome five or more people into their home. 

Despite higher food costs, 77% will serve turkey, while 7% will have ham; 6% roast beef; and 9% seafood or a meat alternative.

Over half (54%) expect their Thanksgiving meal to cost more than it did in 2021, while 39% anticipate spending the same amount of money. 

While most households say they won’t cut back on individual parts of the meal, a chunk will cut back to stay on budget, nixing items like appetizers (38%), dessert (37%) and side dishes (32%)

As for how they’ll save, respondents listed searching multiple stores for the best deals; price matching; buying ingredients ahead of time when on sale; using cash back apps and coupons; and shopping private label as ways they plan to stretch their budget.