Tensions in Turkey? Prevent supply chain disruptions from ruining vacations

The pandemic has disrupted market supply chains, often leaving holes in consumers’ grocery lists.

Family cooks are right to be concerned about holiday menus, said Courtney Bir, Oklahoma State University extension specialist and assistant professor in the department of agricultural economics.

However, Thanksgiving is not doomed to fail.

“The shelves are not bare. You just need to consider your options, ”Bir said.

The options are exactly what OSU Extension Assistant Specialists such as Jenni Klufa and Diana Romano have suggested:

Sharing is Caring – Invite everyone to contribute and let them know this year will be a little different, Romano said in the Community Nutrition Education Program.

Budget now – Every dish on the table should cost more this year, according to economists and big food companies. Be upfront about what is most important to the family.

Buy Early – Reduce stress by avoiding the crowds in grocery stores.

Pay attention to portion sizes – Consumerism can cause people to forget about their health. Fruits and vegetables help stretch the “protein budget” if the turkey is smaller than usual, said Klufa, who focuses on young people at CNEP.

Most importantly, try to embrace the adaptation rather than dreading disappointment. Good memories come from overcoming challenges together.

So instead of parents summoning children to the table at the last minute, Klufa said, their experience should start in the grocery store and continue in the kitchen.

“Even the youngest like to be asked to pick carrots or green beans. They are also more likely to eat healthy foods if they take responsibility for it, ”Klufa said. “And older kids will love to be given credit, even if it’s just washing vegetables or stirring the pot.”

More holiday meal ideas are available at OSU Extension online.

This article originally appeared on The Shawnee News-Star: Tensions in Turkey? Prevent supply chain disruptions from ruining vacations