By Clint Thompson
The Georgia Peanut Commission is partnering with the Georgia Bankers Association this week to promote the Georgia Peanut Bank Week. Financial institutions and banks across Georgia will pay tribute to the state’s peanut producers.
Justin Odom, project coordinator in farm and field services at the Georgia Peanut Commission, discussed what this week means for the state’s peanut industry.
“The Georgia Peanut Commission and Georgia Bankers Association are partnering for our 46th annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week. The Georgia Peanut Bank Week is a great way for us to highlight peanuts, their affordability and also their health benefits,” Odom said. “With the Georgia Bankers Association, being able to partner with them and getting our product out in front of the customers, the people that are coming into their banks, it’s just another great way to showcase and highlight our 4,500 peanut producers and this wonderful commodity that they grow.”
Health Benefits
Research studies indicate and highlight regular consumption of peanuts can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. Individuals can reap these benefits by taking one daily ounce (about a handful) of peanuts or two tablespoons of peanut butter.
This annual promotion is happening during a time when peanut producers are harvesting their crop. Last year’s peanut crop in Georgia accounted for 52% of the country’s production. More than 750,000 acres were planted.
The Georgia Peanut Commission urges everyone to stop by their local participating bank or financial institution during Georgia Peanut Bank Week to learn more about Georgia peanuts. For more information, visit the GPC website at www.gapeanuts.com.