USDA Reports Record-High Peanut Production Expected for 2025
USDA has released new numbers following the government shutdown, and the latest data show that the U.S. peanut industry is heading toward a record-breaking harvest. According to updated projections, the country “will now have three million seven hundred and thirty five thousand five hundred and fifty tons.” This represents an increase of 1% from the previous forecast and a significant 15% jump from the revised 2024 total of 6.49 billion pounds.
If these numbers are realized, this will mark the highest peanut production level ever recorded in the United States.
Acreage Remains Steady, but Yields Climb
USDA reports that area harvested is expected to reach “1.90 million acres,” unchanged from earlier predictions but still up 9% from last year. The larger footprint signals continued confidence in peanut profitability and strong planting decisions across key producing states.
Yield projections continue to rise as well. Based on crop conditions as of November 1, the national average yield is expected to reach “3,930 pounds per acre.” That’s an increase of 40 pounds per acre from the previous USDA forecast and 207 pounds per acre higher than the 2024 figures. Favorable late-season weather and improved growing conditions in major peanut-producing regions have contributed to this upward shift.
A Strong Year Compared to Last Season
Overall, the U.S. is on track for a substantial increase over last year’s crop. The current forecast compares to “three million two hundred and forty four thousand tons last year,” bringing the year-over-year gain to nearly 15%. This surge in production ensures that peanut supplies will be plentiful heading into 2025, offering stability for processors, manufacturers, and export markets.
The Crop Nears Completion
With harvest activities nearly complete, the peanut industry is preparing for a year of strong supplies and market opportunities. As USDA’s numbers indicate, “lots of peanuts [are] available and the crop is now almost finished.”
The record-setting production forecast reflects both expanded acreage and steadily improving yields—key indicators of a robust and resilient U.S. peanut sector moving into the new year.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.