If you want to talk turkey this holiday season, but you’re balking at the price, here’s what is happening.

Dalhousie University Food Professor Sylvain Charlebois says the avian flu is having a big impact and it has spread across Canada.

“Unlike previous strains, the current bird flu has spread across Canada, raising fears it could become endemic in wild birds, no less. A nightmare.” Charlebois wrote in an open letter, stressing the need to buy turkey’s early.

People across our country have been posting pictures on social of eye popping turkey price tags. At some grocery stores, a 15 to 20 pound turkey stuffed turkey is more than $70.

Charlebois says if you find a deal pick up your turkey now, as prices will likely continue to go up.

“No human cases of avian influenza have been detected in Canada to date. There have been some elsewhere. Let’s hope that doesn’t change. It should also be noted that avian flu poses no food safety risk to consumers.” said Charleboise.