With 1,245 jars of peanut butter for a total weight of 1,706 pounds, the 2020 Peanut Butter Challenge was a success thanks to the partnership between UF/IFAS Extension, the Florida Peanut Producers Association, the Florida Peanut Federation and local support. The Florida Peanut Producers Association and Florida Peanut Federation will provide an additional peanut butter donation as a match.
The Peanut Butter Challenge, started in 2012 and since held annually in the 16 counties of the Florida Panhandle, is a community-driven food collection. The donated jars stock local food pantries, supplying a nutrient-dense and shelf-stable spread made from a Florida-grown product.
This year, counties throughout the state joined in the challenge, called to action by a higher demand among food pantries due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as a desire to help their neighbors during a time of greater need. UF/IFAS Extension in Santa Rosa County distributed peanut butter to five local food pantries.
In addition, Ken Barton, executive director of the Florida Peanut Producers Association, and Laura Fowler Goss, executive director of the Florida Peanut Federation, with the support of their respective boards, have long been partners and contributors to this project. Not only does the Peanut Butter Challenge help publicize the important contribution of the peanut industry of Florida, but it also helps provide a healthy and universally loved product to food pantries.
For more information, contact Chris Verlinde or Mary Salinas at 850-623-3868.
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