Rising Ham Prices and Demand Highlight This Holiday Season
The holiday season brings a surge in ham’s popularity, second only to turkey as a festive centerpiece.
However, lower pork production this year could impact prices, though availability should remain stable, according to experts at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Pork Production Faces Challenges
Dr. David Anderson, an agricultural economist at Texas A&M, explained the drop in pork production. “Several months of financial losses are beginning to take their toll,” he said, pointing to reduced sow farrowing as a key factor.
Although production efficiency, like more pigs per litter, has offset the decline in sow numbers, the effects of lower farrowing are now showing up in hog slaughter rates and overall output.
Retail ham prices reflect this shift, reaching $4.60 per pound in September—slightly higher than last year. Yet, Anderson noted this was the lowest retail price since June.
As the holidays approach, wholesale prices are climbing, with 23-27-pound trimmed hams now priced at $0.95 per pound, their highest in months.
Ham’s Enduring Popularity
Ham remains a beloved holiday staple, with 70% of sales recorded during the 13-week festive period, according to Dr. Davey Griffin, a meat specialist at Texas A&M.
Retailers prepare well in advance, booking holiday hams early to secure lower prices and ensure availability.
The National Pork Board estimates that Americans will consume 318 million pounds of ham this Christmas.
Traditional bone-in hams continue to dominate consumer preferences, but spiral-sliced and boneless options are increasingly popular for convenience and smaller gatherings.
Griffin highlighted the expanding range of flavors catering to evolving tastes. Beyond classics like hickory-smoked and brown sugar-glazed, options now include honey, black forest, applewood, and even salted caramel.
A Feast to Savor
Despite higher prices, the variety and availability of holiday hams promise to delight shoppers. Whether traditional or trendy, ham remains a symbol of festive cheer, offering flavors to suit every table.
As Anderson noted, “Ham demand and associated wholesale prices are increasing”—a reflection of its enduring place at the holiday feast.
Curious about how rising ham prices will affect your holiday dinner? Visit our homepage for more insights on meat trends, prices, and festive recipes this season.
