This year is the first year that I’ve seen a big influx of heritage breed birds in supermarkets. Without looking into the sales of heritage breed turkeys, just based on my observations in the meat sections of Whole Foods stores and similar markets I would have to say that there seems to be a growing market for these tastey critters. I think heritage/heirloom foods are a natural accompaniment to the ever growing organic food market. I am hoping to see far more than just heritage turkeys in the near future.

Along the same lines, I went to Lionette’s Market in the South End of Boston on Saturday with Alex because they sell heritage turkeys, guinea hens, pheasants, rabbit, squab, etc., and one of the guys working there said that they are not selling pheasants this year because they cost $50 per bird. That is insane! If the market has to pay $50 per bird, I can’t imagine what the end customer would have to pay.

Regardless, let’s start thinking about getting in to the pheasant/heritage turkey business. Then, we can do a spin off and sell heritage tofurkeys. Blocks of tofu with construction paper feathers and certified bean family trees. I know what you’re thinking…genius.

Advertisement