Farmers across Lincolnshire raise concerns there could be a shortage of turkeys this Christmas

Issues like staffing are behind the problem

Turkey
Author: Andy MarshPublished 15th Nov 2021

Concerns have been raised in Lincolnshire over whether we'll have enough Turkeys this Christmas.

Farmers we've spoken to say a number of issues have risen - such as staffing and the pandemic.

Breeding numbers are said to be down because farmers don't want the birds to go to waste.

Philip Mowbray is from TT Turkeys in Woodhall Spa - he says because of Covid, breeding numbers are down because they don't want animals to go to waste.

He told us "people have pulled back on numbers because turkeys aren't even seasonal - it's a "one hit wonder at Christmas, one day only."

"We've got to be very careful as they're not worth anything in the freezer on Boxing Day".

"Bird numbers are down and the other problem we're going to face is staff shortages".

He says uncertainty has meant that producers have been very cautious about the numbers.

That's because of issues like the uncertainty over whether Covid will impact this Christmas.

However the Chief Executive of the British Poultry Council insists everyone who wants a bird will be able to buy one - despite supply chain issues.

But Richard Griffiths has admitted customers will have less choice this year, with simpler options available.