Peanut’s Price Hike

One of America’s most dependable proteins is said to be getting a price hike. Find out how to navigate this price increase here

Most of us have heard about, or are experiencing increasing food costs. One of America’s most dependable proteins used for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even snacks is said to also be getting a price hike… peanuts and peanut butter. According to the National Peanut Board this is true and is due to a combination of factors, including rising energy prices and severe heat and drought throughout peanut growing regions causing this year’s crop to be smaller than last.

Price increases as large as 35 percent are expected from some peanut butter manufacturers, and some companies have even decided to temporarily stop making some varieties. The National Peanut Board encourages you to continue to use peanut butter, as it is still an inexpensive source of nutrition; one serving of peanut butter (equivalent to one ounce, or two tablespoons) would increase less than four cents, from 12.7 to 16.5 cents. 

Peanut butter is relatively shelf stable, so if you know your family loves PB&J sandwiches, it’s time to stock up. It’s also a great idea to use coupons, but don’t forget your basic nutritional standards. Always read the ingredient list and search for the nut butters with the least amount of ingredients, peanut butter should contain peanuts and maybe a little salt. If your favorite brand is getting too expensive compare the ingredients and find a less expensive alternative with similar ingredients.

According to RDs Janice Newell Bissex and Liz Weiss also authors of the new family cookbook, No Whine with Dinner, “ounce for ounce, sandwich for sandwich, you still can’t beat protein-packed peanut butter for value. That’s as true today as it has ever been, as food costs across the board rise.”

Peanuts have more than 30 nutrients and are packed with more protein than any nut — seven grams per one ounce serving. If peanuts aren’t your thing try almond, sunflower or other nut and seed butters.

And for those with a peanut allergy, a new study shows promise for a peanut filled future, as researchers may have found a lead to a potential cure for peanut and other food allergies. Researchers at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine were able to achieve peanut tolerance by attaching peanut proteins onto blood cells and reintroducing them to the body — tricking the immune system into thinking the proteins pose no threat. The study is still in the beginning stages.