British turkey farmers are calling on households to make home-grown poultry the centerpiece of their festive tables as #BuyMyTurkey Day celebrates its ninth year this December.
The NFU is encouraging families to choose locally produced birds and support British farming by buying directly from nearby farms, using the co-op’s turkey finder tool or asking their butcher where their turkey came from.
The initiative highlights the importance of supporting homegrown food and farming, reminding shoppers that choosing British meat helps sustain rural communities, promote animal welfare and support high quality production standards.
Farmers say interest in direct purchasing has grown over the years, with more households choosing to source their food closer to home. This reflects a broader shift towards origin-led shopping, as consumers increasingly focus on traceability, welfare standards and environmental impact of their festive meals.
Producers say a whole bird is a great value, an impressive centerpiece and provides enough leftovers to feed for several days beyond Christmas.
Jonathan Smith, chairman of the NFU Seasonal Poultry Group, said British turkey farmers were proud to be part of the country’s festive tradition.
He described #BuyMyTurkey Day as an opportunity to highlight the skills and efforts behind producing “quality food”, while reminding people that by buying British goods they are supporting farmers and the rural economy.
Mr Smith said the campaign aimed to strengthen the connection between “the farm gate and the festive table”, stressing that a roasted turkey is not just a showpiece item, but a “sustainable choice” at a time when many households are watching their finances. Its versatility and nutritional value make it perfect for incorporating into multiple meals, he added.
He advised shoppers to use the NFU’s Turkey Finder to source local producers and ask their butchers if the bird was British and what farm it came from. Supermarket customers are advised to look for the red tractor logo and Confederate flag to ensure they are purchasing home-raised turkeys.
Mr Smith said choosing British birds was an easy way to “make your Christmas dinner special while supporting British farming”.
