Source: Sandra B. Procter, 785-532-1675, e-mail: sprocter@k-state.edu
News release prepared by: Jessica Clark, 785-532-6415

Thursday, November 7, 2002

K-STATE NUTRITION EDUCATOR SAYS THANKSGIVING CAN BE AFFORDABLE AND PRACTICAL

MANHATTAN -- Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, a little cranberry sauce, some pumpkin pie and all the trimmings can add up to a lot of work -- and a lot of money. However, a Kansas State University nutrition educator believes even with all the extras, Thanksgiving dinner can be affordable.

Sandy Procter, coordinator of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program and extension associate in the department of human nutrition at K-State, says a little planning can go a long way when it comes to making Thanksgiving dinner more affordable.

"One of the best strategies when preparing Thanksgiving dinner is having a plan," Procter said. "It allows you to know what it is you are going to prepare and then you can get those items at sale prices."

Most of the staple ingredients needed for Thanksgiving dinner are on sale several weeks before the holiday arrives and Procter said looking in grocery store sale ads ahead of time can help save money.

"Thanksgiving originally started out as a celebration of harvest and that can still be seen today," Procter said. "Most of the foods associated with a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, such as turkey, pumpkins, apples, cranberries and various vegetables are in season and are usually on sale."

Having a plan for Thanksgiving dinner also allows the host to ask others to pitch in and bring a dish, she adds.

"Feel comfortable with planning the meal ahead of time and asking others to bring various dishes," Procter said. "Not only does it help out with the cost of dinner, but saves the host from becoming worn out. Most people are more than happy to bring a dish; they feel they are contributing and sharing what they have made."

In addition, Procter suggests being prepared for leftovers. This too helps to make the holiday more practical.

"If you plan to send leftovers with your guests, it is a good idea to have extra plastic bags or bowls for them to take it home in," Procter said. "There are also many recipes for using up leftover turkey, such as freezing it and then using it in casseroles or in turkey noodle soup. This way, the turkey lasts longer and provides several meals beyond Thanksgiving dinner."

To make Thanksgiving dinner more affordable, Procter suggests making a cranberry dish -- these are easy to fix and most only have three ingredients: cranberries, sugar and water. She also recommends using a turkey breast instead of an entire turkey.

"Turkey breasts work particularly well for those who aren't comfortable preparing a turkey or who are preparing a smaller dinner and don't want all the leftover turkey. It is simpler and still tastes great," Procter said.

Community dinners are a good alternative to cooking the traditional Thanksgiving dinner and offer an opportunity to give to the community and share fellowship. Volunteering for community dinners or other organizations providing food is a great way of making Thanksgiving a happy time for others and starting new traditions with your own family, Procter said.

Procter said one reason Thanksgiving dinner can become so expensive is by spending money on details such as decorative napkins, candles and other decorations. These expenses can add up quickly and are usually time-consuming, expensive and unnecessary. Because families just enjoy being with one another and reflecting on their blessings, this is one expense that can be avoided, Procter said.

"Depending on what your constraint is, whether it is time or money, there are different options," Procter said. "For those who are able to spend more money and want to save time, entire dinners or particular dishes can be bought ready to serve. Those who want to save money can take advantage of seasonal foods, sales and divide up bringing dishes for Thanksgiving dinner."

For help with cooking a turkey or other Thanksgiving dinner tips, Procter suggests visiting http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/news/sty/2001/turkey_guesswork.htm or http://www.butterball.com

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