HARTFORD, Conn. — With inflation impacting many families' plates this holiday season, dairy farmers across Connecticut are stepping up to help combat food insecurity and give families affordable nutrition.
Thanksgiving meals are going to cost more this year and prices of food on the shelves are going up, according to experts. And it can be challenging for families to get the best nutrition for their dollar.
That’s why family-owned dairy farmers across the state are working hard to keep their supply stocked and remind families that dairy products can be the best bang for your buck during challenging times.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices are up almost 11% this year. And Thanksgiving dinner could cost 20% more than last year, experts said.
For families struggling, Heidi Harkopf, the director of programs with New England Dairy said dairy products give you more nutritional value for a lower cost than what can be in the pantry.
"It’s a powerful nutrient package for the cost that it is. A class of milk in Connecticut is 28 cents but in that glass you get 13 essential nutrients to support growing bodies, health and immunity," said Harkopf.
Many dairy farms across the state are family owned and operated.
Around the holiday season, they set their sights on battling food insecurity by donating refrigerators to local food pantries so they can be stocked with dairy products and work with schools to make sure students have the nutrients they need.
Dairy farms also distribute products quickly. On average, it only takes about two days for milk to go from the farm to a store.
With more families struggling this time of year, Harkopf said it's important for farmers to keep serving the community with local products.
The good news is this Thanksgiving, certain products might be easier to find on the shelves than in past years.
Experts say everyone should be able to find a turkey this year, but that cost for the turkey is around 20% more than last year.
Lindsey Kane is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at Lkane@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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