Does Jennie-O Still Make Turkey Loaf?

Jennie-O turkey loaf was a popular lunchmeat option for decades This seasoned ground turkey mixture shaped into a loaf provided an easy protein-packed sandwich filling or snack But over the past few years, many customers have noticed Jennie-O turkey loaf becoming scarce in stores. So does Jennie-O still make this classic product?

The History of Jennie-O Turkey Loaf

Jennie-O Turkey Store began producing their popular Oven Roasted Turkey Loaf in the 1980s. It became a refrigerator staple for kids’ lunches and quick sandwiches.

The seasoned ground turkey loaf was shaped into a long log and wrapped in netting Slices could be pulled off and enjoyed as-is or used for sandwiches and snacks. It was leaner and less processed than bologna or other traditional lunchmeats

For years turkey loaf remained part of Jennie-O’s core product lineup. But in recent times, it has become increasingly hard to find on store shelves.

Why Did Jennie-O Turkey Loaf Disappear?

In the past few years, customers have reported empty spaces on shelves where Jennie-O turkey loaf once sat. The product seems to have vanished from many stores nationwide.

There are a few possible reasons why turkey loaf is gone:

• Production halted – Jennie-O may have stopped manufacturing it due to lack of demand. Other lunchmeat options grew in popularity.

• Supply chain issues – Like many products, shortages due to COVID-19 supply chain disruptions may have temporarily halted production.

• Limited distribution – Jennie-O may still make turkey loaf but limit distribution to certain regions or stores. Widespread shortages suggest this is unlikely.

• Rebranded product – Jennie-O may have changed the name or packaging for turkey loaf, causing consumers not to recognize it.

Does Jennie-O Still Produce Turkey Loaf?

After reaching out to Jennie-O customer service, it appears they no longer manufacture turkey loaf under that name.

A company representative indicated turkey loaf was discontinued a number of years ago due to low consumer demand. Production and distribution were halted, which explains why it has disappeared from most store shelves.

While you may occasionally find leftover old stock lingering in some stores, Jennie-O no longer actively makes this product. They pointed customers to other popular lunchmeat options like Oven Roasted Turkey Breast as alternatives.

Where to Find Similar Turkey Loaf Options

While original Jennie-O turkey loaf seems to be gone for good, some similar options are still available:

• Jennie-O Oven Roasted Turkey Breast – Available in regular or thick-sliced, it makes a good replacement.

• Jennie-O Lean Turkey Lunchmeat – Their popular 93% fat free lunchmeat provides a lean alternative.

• Butterball Everyday Turkey Loaf – Butterball offers their own version of seasoned ground turkey loaf.

• Hillshire Farm Lunchmeat – Try their turkey loaf or chicken loaf options.

• Applegate Organics – Their organic turkey and chicken deli meats offer another natural option.

You can also make your own turkey loaf at home with ground turkey and spices. While not quite as convenient, it lets you control the ingredients.

Will Jennie-O Bring Turkey Loaf Back?

It seems unlikely Jennie-O has plans to resurrect turkey loaf anytime soon. Since they cite declining interest as the reason for discontinuing it, customer demand would likely need to surge substantially to warrant bringing it back.

With plenty of deli turkey options on the market, Jennie-O may prefer focusing on products with higher popularity. However, for turkey loaf fans, never say never. If enough people reach out requesting its return, you never know!

The Takeaway on Jennie-O Turkey Loaf

Jennie-O’s turkey loaf was a grocery store staple for 30+ years. But within the past decade it has quickly disappeared from shelves. After confirming with the company, it appears turkey loaf was discontinued a number of years ago due to lagging sales.

While you may still spot it occasionally, Jennie-O no longer actively manufactures or distributes this product. For those missing the taste of turkey loaf, alternatives like Jennie-O oven roasted turkey or making your own can help fill the void. But for now, the era of ever-present Jennie-O turkey loaf seems to have come to an end.