The History of Peanut Butter

Peanut butter has become one of the world's most popular add-ons to a large list of dishes as it’s known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.  So much so that this month, we are celebrating Peanut Butter Day on April 2nd. The history of peanut butter dates back thousands of years, revealing that we as humans have been enjoying this spread for a lot longer than you might think. Additionally, it might be used in more ways than you know. 

The peanut plant is native to South America, and archaeological evidence suggests that the Incas had their own version of peanut butter as they would ground peanuts into a paste long before the modern form of peanut butter was used. However, the spread we know today began to form more towards the late 19th century. In 1884, Marcellus Gilmore Edson created a process for making peanut butter by grinding roasted peanuts between heated surfaces. This invention allowed for a smoother and more spreadable mixture. As Marcellus was Canadian, Canada popularized the use of peanut butter slightly before the United States. 

In the United States, peanut butter gained popularity in the early 20th century. It was marketed as a high protein food option, often being found in cans rather than jars that we are used to now. Due to its continued advertising as a protein-packed and easy meal, our military began to use it as an alternative for meat during wars when food was scarce. The texture of the spread began to change as the creation of commercial peanut butter brands, like Skippy and Jif, integrated it into American households. By the 1950s, peanut butter sandwiches became a popular option in children's lunches and commercial desserts.

In today’s world, peanut butter’s use is incredibly versatile and is typically used in a large variety of ways. Besides the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, it is often added to smoothies and yogurt, used as a dip, or incorporated into baked goods like cookies and brownies. It’s also seen in popular candy brands such as Reese’s. Outside of the U.S, different cultures use it as more of a regular savory staple, such as Thai peanut sauce for noodles and salad dressings. The flavor of peanut butter aids in both sweet and savory recipes, which can be credited for its popularization in dishes across the world.

Amongst its culinary uses, peanut butter is packed with nutritional benefits. It is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. It is often discredited for this because of its high calorie count. 

Peanut butter has become a popular staple for various reasons, and about 700 million pounds of peanut butter are consumed each year by Americans.  Peanut butter has an ever-changing history that shows not only its evolution from the ancient world, but also how it has developed as a common kitchen staple.