Sharlee Whiddon
Gadsden County News Service
The Peanut Butter Challenge is an annual jar collection for local food pantries hosted by UF/IFAS Extension and Florida A&M University (FAMU) Cooperative Extension. Launched in the Florida Panhandle counties in 2012, it is again spreading statewide this year. Unopened jars of peanut butter can be donated locally throughout October and early November. In 2024, nearly 40,000 pounds of peanut butter was donated statewide, that’s approximately the weight of a school bus, and the 2025 challenge is expected to surpass that amount!
Peanut butter, whether you’re team creamy or team crunchy, is a go-to favorite in kitchens everywhere and it’s not just for sandwiches anymore! From smoothies to cookies to savory dishes, peanut butter brings serious flavor and versatility to the table. Plus, it’s packed with goodness, just one tablespoon can provide you with up to 7 grams of protein and over 30 essential vitamins and minerals. While it may be a little high in calories, in the right portions, it can be part of a healthy diet. It’s tasty, nutritious, and super easy to use, so what’s not to love?
Joining the Peanut Butter Challenge is also a fun way to show some love to peanut farmers right here in the Sunshine State. So go on, grab a spoon, and spread the peanut butter love!
This year there will be collection boxes in several locations (additional sites may be added):
- UF/IFAS Extension Gadsden County Office
- North Florida Research and Education Center
- Quincy Public Library
- Chattahoochee Public Library
- Havana Public Library
- Farm Bureau Insurance Havana and Quincy
- Gadsden County BOCC Butler Building
- Otterly Southern Boutique
Peanut butter collection will take place throughout the month of October and peanut butter distribution will begin in early November to local food banks and organizations in Gadsden County. If your organization would like to be added to our distribution list or if you would like to help distribute peanut butter to those in need, please contact the UF/IFAS Gadsden County Extension Office at 850-875-7255.
Sharlee is the family and consumer sciences agent for University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension Gadsden County.
