The Importance of Agriculture on Thanksgiving

Gathering around the table to enjoy a home cooked meal is a Thanksgiving tradition for most American families. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole are a few staples that most families enjoy. With all of the amazing food that is involved, most people leave the holiday filled with Thanksgiving spirit. 

Before digging into our family's Thanksgiving feast, I like to appreciate the hard work that has been done for the food on my plate. While most of us have off work on Thanksgiving, over 2 million American farmers and ranchers continue to work. 

Although the year 2020 has caused Thanksgiving to look different for 70% of people, recognizing our American farmers and ranchers is important. Regardless of how your family is spending Thanksgiving this year, it’s important to recognize the role played by the agricultural industry to supply lunch, dinner, and often a week’s worth of leftovers!

I believe the dedication, work ethic, and ingenuity of our US farmers is impressive. It’s no surprise that our country ranks top 5 in many different global food productions -- particularly for a few of the foods you may see on your plate this Thanksgiving:

#1 in global turkey production.

#5 in global potato production. 

#1 in global cranberry production.

#1 in global pecan production.

#5 in global pumpkin production.

This Thanksgiving (and all the others to come), remember to acknowledge the hands that prepared your food and the farmers that grew it. Thank you all for the delicious, chart-topping, American-grown food!