How Many Chicken Wings are Consumed on Super Bowl Sunday

By Jason Bolton January 15, 2024 05:50

The consumption of chicken wings during the Super Bowl has become a tradition deeply ingrained in American culture. Let's delve into the staggering numbers and fascinating facts surrounding the consumption of chicken wings on this iconic sporting event.

Record-breaking Consumption

According to the National Chicken Council, Americans are projected to consume a staggering 1.45 billion chicken wings during Super Bowl LVII weekend, marking an increase of two percent from the previous year. This figure equates to roughly four wings for every man, woman, and child in the United States. The sheer magnitude of this consumption is exemplified by the fact that if these wings were distributed to the full State Farm Stadium, each fan could enjoy a mind-boggling 19,863 wings.

Factors Driving Consumption

Several factors contribute to the unprecedented consumption of chicken wings during the Super Bowl. The National Chicken Council spokesperson, Tom Super, attributes the uptick to more favorable prices and the increasing number of people returning to normal gatherings for the Big Game, whether at home or in bars/restaurants. Moreover, both wholesale and retail wing prices have seen a double-digit decrease from the previous year, as reported by the USDA.

Historical Significance

The history of buffalo chicken wings, a staple of Southern cooking, dates back to 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. Co-owner Teressa Bellissimo is credited with cooking leftover wings in hot sauce as a late-night snack for her son and his friends, thus birthing the concept of cooking wings in peppery hot sauce. This historical anecdote adds an intriguing layer to the cultural significance of chicken wings in American cuisine, especially during events like the Super Bowl.

Vegan Wings as an Alternative

While traditional chicken wings dominate the Super Bowl food scene, there is a notable trend towards the consumption of vegan wings during this iconic event. According to Compassion in World Farming, an estimated 160 million vegan wings were expected to be consumed during the Super Bowl game between the Bengals and Rams. This shift towards plant-based alternatives reflects the increasing popularity of healthy and humane versions of classic American foods.

Impact of the Pandemic

The pandemic has had a significant impact on chicken wings consumption. The shift from sit-down restaurants to takeout and quick service has notably boosted chicken wing consumption, according to Tom Super of the National Chicken Council. This trend is attributed to the rise of takeout and delivery-oriented establishments, such as wing joints and pizza places, which have thrived as long as people gather to watch TV and enjoy a casual meal.

Partnerships and Trends

For football fans seeking more convenient options, Beyond Meat has partnered with KFC nationwide, offering a plant-based alternative to traditional wings for those opting for a vegan or vegetarian diet during the Super Bowl. This partnership signifies the growing trend towards plant-based substitutes and the increasing availability of such options to cater to diverse dietary preferences during major events like the Super Bowl.

the consumption of chicken wings during the Super Bowl is not only a testament to American culinary traditions but also reflects evolving dietary preferences and cultural shifts. The staggering numbers and historical significance of wings consumption during this iconic event highlight its enduring impact on American food culture.