The cost of small fowl, specifically those marketed as “Cornish game hens,” is subject to considerable variation. Pricing is influenced by factors such as the bird’s origin (farm-raised versus conventionally raised), size, whether it is fresh or frozen, and the retailer from which it is purchased. The point of sale, whether a high-end specialty butcher or a large discount supermarket, significantly impacts the final price to the consumer. To illustrate, an organic, free-range bird from a local farm will invariably command a higher price point than a conventionally raised, frozen bird found in a bulk package at a national grocery chain.
Understanding the market drivers for poultry prices is crucial for both consumers and culinary professionals. Historically, poultry has been viewed as a relatively inexpensive source of protein. However, shifts in consumer preferences towards higher-quality, sustainably-raised products, coupled with inflationary pressures affecting feed and transportation costs, have altered the affordability landscape. Consequently, it is vital to consider the trade-offs between price and the desired attributes of the poultry product being purchased.
