Florida Peanut Butter Challenge Sets New Record for Hunger Relief
From creamy to crunchy, thousands of jars of peanut butter are finding their way into Florida homes this season thanks to the generosity of residents statewide. The annual Florida Peanut Butter Challenge once again proved the power of community collaboration, helping feed families one jar at a time during the critical winter months.
This year’s effort resulted in 44,564 pounds of peanut butter donated, with every ounce making a difference for families facing food insecurity. According to Kevin Cam, director of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the total reflects an extraordinary level of statewide participation and support.
The Peanut Butter Challenge is a collaborative initiative led by the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, with support from the Florida Peanut Federation, the Florida Peanut Producers Association, and numerous community partners across the state. Together, these organizations work to collect shelf-stable, protein-rich food that can be easily distributed to families in need.
Extension offices across the Florida Panhandle originally launched the competition in 2012 with the goal of providing nutritious food ahead of the winter holidays. Peanut butter was selected because of its long shelf life, high protein content, and versatility—making it an ideal donation for food pantries and families alike.
Since its inception, the challenge has grown significantly, and this year marked another milestone. All 67 Florida counties participated, demonstrating widespread commitment to hunger relief efforts. The total collected exceeded last year’s donation amount by approximately 5,600 pounds, setting a new statewide record for the program.
The increase highlights both the ongoing need for food assistance and the willingness of Florida residents to step up and help their neighbors. As food costs remain elevated and demand at food banks continues to rise, contributions like these play a vital role in supporting vulnerable populations.
An added benefit of the Peanut Butter Challenge is its connection to Florida agriculture. Many of the peanuts used to produce the donated peanut butter are grown by Florida farmers, creating a meaningful link between local agriculture and local communities.
Florida peanuts going into peanut butter and then into Florida homes is a powerful reminder of how agriculture, education, and community service can work together to make a lasting impact. With another successful year completed, organizers say the challenge continues to set the standard for collaborative hunger relief efforts across the state.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.