The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is prioritizing nutrient density on many of the foods and overall health outcomes when evaluating food products.
One product that we like to enjoy is peanuts and peanut butter. As the most widely known consumed nut, the per capita consumption of peanuts was 7.3 pounds per person in 2024 alone. Approximately 59 percent of all peanuts consumed in the United States are in peanut butter form.
The FDA’s current standard of identity on any food labeled peanut butter requires that the product contain at least 90 percent peanuts. Therefore, while some peanut butters may add a small amount of added sugar, less than three grams, for palatability and are all for stability and ease of spreading, the product contains mostly peanuts and has a similar nutrient profile as peanuts. Like peanuts, peanut butter is among the most nutritious, sustainable, shelf-stable, and economical sources of protein.
It is the highest in protein compared to all other nuts. Good news and hope that USDA and FDA will keep peanut butter at 90 percent peanuts.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.