Cheapism is editorially independent. We may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site.

A red shopping cart with a gray handle in front of a Target store, featuring the Target logo and clear blue sky in the background.
LPETTET/istockphoto

Amid all the news about inflation, the affordability crisis, tariffs, and the stress of upcoming holidays, it feels like the average American consumer is looking for a straw to hold on to. Target just offered one by announcing it will cut prices on more than 3,000 products, including food, beverages, and essential items.

The Minneapolis-based retailer announced in a press release Tuesday that it is “increasing support for families to help them further stretch their household budgets this holiday season.”

The company didn’t confirm if this effort has anything to do with the recent halt in SNAP benefits amid the government shutdown, but it comes just in time.

“I’m proud of the way our team moved quickly to lower prices on thousands of items our guests need most,” said Lisa Roath, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer of food, essentials, and beauty at Target. “It’s important work that will make a difference for families managing tight household budgets during the holidays. And it’s work that builds on Target’s legacy of strengthening communities through the way we run our business.”

When and Which Products?

A red and white sign with the word "Sale!" in bold letters and the Target store logo on the right side.
Hopeful_Pie7161/Reddit.com

Target said customers will notice lower prices on certain items — including pantry staples, baby items, and household essentials — starting this month and continuing through the end of the year. The retailer didn’t release a full list of discounted products, but a spokesperson for Target shared a sample including the following:

  • Kraft Mac & Cheese 11 oz: Now $1.69 (was $1.99)
  • Gerber Kids Snacks: Now $2.99 (was $3.49)
  • Market Pantry Hickory Smoked Spiral-Cut Bone-In Ham (per pound): Now $1.49 (was $2.49/lb)
  • Pillsbury Pie Crust: Now $3.19 (was $4.59)
  • Good & Gather Honeycrisp Apples, 3 lb bag: Now $5.99 (was $6.99)
  • Good & Gather Pure Almond Extract (1 oz): Now $1.59 (was $3.99)
  • Up & Up Cold & Flu 12 oz: Now $6.59 (was $9.19)
  • Munchkin Sippy Cup 9 oz, 2-pack: Now $5.79 (was $7.99)
  • Sudafed 36-tablet pack: Now $12.99 (was $16.99)
  • CeraVe Face Cleanser: Now $13.69 (was $16.99)

Target ran a similar campaign last year, slashing prices on around 2,000 items.

Is a Thanksgiving Deal Included?

A kitchen counter with a bowl of potatoes, a frozen turkey, stuffing mix, canned cranberry sauce, canned corn, rolls, a cutting board with herbs, and a vase with flowers. Cooking utensils hang on the wall.
Target

Aside from the lower prices, Target also announced last week that its Thanksgiving meal is at a record low — under $20, or less than $5 per person. The meal includes Good & Gather Premium Basted Young Turkey (frozen, up to 10 lb), Good & Gather Russet Potatoes (5 lb bag), Ocean Spray Jellied Cranberry Sauce (14 oz), Stove Top Stuffing Mix (6 oz), Heinz Home Style Roasted Turkey Gravy (12 oz), Favorite Day Soft French Bread, and Good & Gather Frozen Corn.

“What I love about Target during the holidays is our ability to help families celebrate in style while spending less — and that’s exactly what we’re doing this Thanksgiving,” said Roath. “Our under-$20 Thanksgiving meal is priced even lower than last year’s, but we’re not stopping there. We also have new seasonal sides, stylish table décor, festive apparel, and beautiful greenery and florals. Put it all together, and Target’s making it an absolute joy for everyone to create an elevated, unforgettable Thanksgiving experience.”

What Else Is Target Doing?

A Feeding America West Michigan truck with images of fresh produce is parked outdoors. Two people unload boxes and supplies near the truck, with tables and signs set up for food distribution. Trees and houses appear in the background.
Feeding America West Michigan

The retailer also announced a $500,000 donation to Feeding America, the country’s largest hunger-relief organization, as food banks prepare for higher demand during the holidays. The contribution will help supply five million meals through Feeding America’s network of 200 food banks and 60,000 partner agencies, supporting families in need with emergency food boxes and expanded services.

More Target content:

A store worker in a red vest moves a cart stacked with boxes past a Black Friday deals display in a brightly lit retail store aisle.
KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/Getty Images

Meet the Writer

Alex Andonovska is a staff writer at Cheapism and MediaFeed, based in Porto, Portugal. With 12 years of writing and editing at places like VintageNews.com, she’s your go-to for all things travel, food, and lifestyle. Alex specializes in turning “shower thoughts” into well-researched articles and sharing fun facts that are mostly useless but sure to bring a smile to your face. When she’s not working, you’ll find her exploring second-hand shops, antique stores, and flea markets.