National Peanut Butter Day is celebrated on January 24 each year. Peanut butter is a creamy or crunchy spread made from ground roasted peanuts, and it's a staple in American kitchens. It's the star of the classic PB&J sandwich, a favorite with apples and celery, and a key ingredient in cookies, sauces and smoothies. Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats.
History of National Peanut Butter Day
People in South America ground peanuts into paste centuries ago. The modern history of peanut butter begins in 1884, when Marcellus Gilmore Edson of Montreal patented a process for making peanut paste from roasted peanuts.
In 1895, Dr. John Harvey Kellogg patented a process for making peanut butter from raw peanuts, promoting it as a protein source for patients who had trouble chewing. Peanut butter was introduced to many people at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. George Washington Carver, the famous agricultural scientist, developed hundreds of uses for peanuts and promoted them to Southern farmers, though he did not invent peanut butter.
In 1922, Joseph Rosefield developed a process using partially hydrogenated oil to keep peanut butter from separating, making it smoother and longer-lasting. Under U.S. rules, peanut butter must be at least 90% peanuts. It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar. Who created National Peanut Butter Day is not documented.
Why National Peanut Butter Day Matters
Peanut butter is affordable, shelf-stable and packed with protein, making it a valuable food for families and food banks.
It's incredibly versatile, working in sweet and savory dishes from cookies to Thai-style peanut sauces.
The day also supports American peanut farmers, especially in Georgia, which grows about half of the U.S. peanut crop.
Awareness matters too, because peanut allergies are common. Guidance on introducing peanut foods to babies has changed in recent years, so parents should talk with a pediatrician.
How to Celebrate National Peanut Butter Day
- Make a PB&J: try a new jelly or fruit pairing.
- Bake cookies: make classic peanut butter cookies.
- Cook savory: make a peanut sauce for noodles.
- Blend a smoothie: add peanut butter and banana.
- Donate jars: give peanut butter to a food bank.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share peanut butter snacks, but label them clearly and offer nut-free options for colleagues with allergies. In classrooms, follow school allergy policies; students can learn about George Washington Carver's peanut research without handling peanuts. At home, families can bake peanut butter cookies together or donate jars to a food bank. Natural peanut butter may separate; stir well and refrigerate after opening if the label recommends it.
Fun Facts About National Peanut Butter Day
- Marcellus Gilmore Edson patented peanut paste in 1884.
- U.S. peanut butter must be at least 90% peanuts.
- About 540 peanuts make a 12-ounce jar.
National Peanut Butter Day FAQs
When is National Peanut Butter Day?
National Peanut Butter Day is celebrated on January 24 each year.
Who invented peanut butter?
Marcellus Gilmore Edson patented peanut paste in 1884; John Harvey Kellogg patented a process in 1895.
Did George Washington Carver invent peanut butter?
No. He promoted peanuts and developed many uses for them, but he didn't invent peanut butter.
How many peanuts are in a jar of peanut butter?
About 540 peanuts go into a 12-ounce jar.
Why does natural peanut butter separate?
Without added stabilizers, the oil naturally rises to the top.
Which state grows the most peanuts?
Georgia grows about half of U.S. peanuts.