Peanut butter is not just a beloved treat for Americans; it can even be considered a part of their culture. The United States is one of the largest consumers of peanut butter per capita, consuming over 300,000 tons of peanut butter annually. Americans enjoy peanut butter sandwiches at any time of day or night, in various combinations: with bread and jam (the classic version from American movies), with fruit, and with bacon. Peanut butter is also used in cakes and to make hummus.
So, what is the reason for peanut butter's popularity in the United States?
Although peanuts originated in South America, they reached the United States indirectly via Africa, when new products were introduced to the continent along with the transport of slaves.
During the Civil War, the popularity of peanuts grew – they were used to make pies, coffee-like beverages, and even as a chocolate substitute.
After the war, peanuts spread throughout America. Roasted nuts were sold on every street corner.
The consumption of peanuts in the form of butter only began in the late 19th century, when Canadian chemist and pharmacist Marcellus Gilmore Edson (1849-1940) obtained a patent for making butter from roasted peanuts.
Fifteen years later, in 1898, the renowned physiotherapist and creator of cornflakes, John Kellogg, also attempted to make peanut butter and subsequently patented his own method.
It was initially considered a healthy food for the wealthy – Kellogg included peanut butter in the menu of his sanatorium. Peanut butter became a source of protein for elderly patients who had difficulty chewing meat. Later, Kellogg realized the commercial potential of the butter and began selling it in grocery stores and cafes.
In the early 20th century, the first machine for industrial peanut production was created, and in 1904, the already patented butter was showcased at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis.
Around the same time, peanuts began to replace cotton as an agricultural crop in the United States.
Soon, peanut butter transformed from a delicacy for the rich into an everyday food, and during World War I, it even found its way into soldiers' menus.
Mass production of peanut butter began in the 1920s, and manufacturers found a way to extend its shelf life. Peanut butter broke all popularity records when a small amount of sugar was added. During the Great Depression, the high-calorie and inexpensive sandwich became the only affordable food for many.
Since then, peanut butter consumption in the US has increased annually.
Peanut Butter in American Culture
Over time, peanut butter permeated American culture. In 1916, "Mr. Peanut" was born – the mascot of the peanut industry. The image of the cheerful nut was printed on posters during World War II and featured in various commercials after the war.
Hollywood, of course, was also involved in this widespread campaign.
In many Hollywood films, peanut butter scenes have become iconic. Such as:
- The scene from the film "Meet Joe Black" (1998), where Brad Pitt's character tastes peanut butter for the first time;
- The scene from the film "War of the Worlds" (2005), where Tom Cruise's character feeds his children peanut butter sandwiches;
- In 2019, the film "The Peanut Butter Falcon" was released, where the main character constantly eats peanut butter;
- In 1985, the film "The Peanut Butter Solution" was made, where this product is a secret ingredient in a hair growth remedy.
While years ago peanut butter was a rarity in Georgia, today Georgian consumers, like characters from Hollywood films, already have the opportunity to incorporate Georgian peanut butter into their daily diet and experience its benefits themselves. Snacky - the first Georgian peanut butter - is not only delicious but also contains no additives or sugar and is an ideal product for a healthy diet.
Finally, the composition of peanut butter is as follows:
- Fatty oil – 45-55%;
- Starch – 20%;
- Proteins – 37%;
- Globulins – 17%;
- Arachin and conarachin.
- Also, vitamins B6, B3, E, triterpene saponins, amino acids, purines, phenolcarboxylic acids, leucoanthocyanidins.
Peanuts help blood-forming organs work better; additionally, they are an excellent means of preventing respiratory diseases and also inhibit the formation of wrinkles.
Peanuts are high in calories – they are the most caloric nuts and are very good for the heart. The large amount of fiber they contain helps maintain blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Scientists claim that consuming 67 grams of peanuts per day reduces cholesterol levels by 7% and decreases the risk of developing ischemic heart disease by 9%.
