The PB&J sandwich: A Classic On National Peanut Butter Day

January 24, 2018

The peanut butter and jelly sandwich is as about as American as apple pie. National Peanut Butter Day was Jan. 24.

The average American schoolchild will consume about 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches by the time he or she graduates from high school, according to the Peanut Advisory Board, a nonprofit organization dedicated to research on the nutritional value of peanuts.

Libbie Johnson, agricultural agent for UF/IFAS Extension Escambia County and co-organizer of the annual Peanut Butter Challenge for the Florida Panhandle, explained the popularity of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

“Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches taste so darn good,” Johnson said. “Or maybe because they require no refrigeration and are easy to prepare. They have enough sweetness to satisfy a sweet tooth, but they’re filling.”

Nan Jensen, a family and consumer sciences agent with UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County offers a more expansive explanation.

“It probably has to do with a combination of taste and nostalgia,” Jensen said. “The savory, gooey texture of peanut butter paired with sweet, sticky jelly served between two slices of your favorite bread make for a great flavor combination. Most of us grew up eating PB&J sandwiches — a lunch box staple — and the tradition has been passed down through the generations.”

But peanut butter’s value also lie in its nutrients, she said.

“While it is high in fat and calories, it is a healthier monounsaturated type, and you are getting some protein, magnesium, niacin, phosphorous and vitamin E for your calorie investment,” Jensen said.

Extension faculty suggest limiting intake to about 2 tablespoons – about 180 calories. Jensen offers additional advice to try to ensure people get nutrition without so much unhealthy trans fats and added sugar in their peanut butter: Buy peanut butter that is just ground peanuts with a hint of salt and one that doesn’t contain the partially hydrogenated fat and added sugars.

Consumers can do much more with peanut butter than make PB&J sandwiches. Jensen suggests some tasty, unique ways to use peanut butter:

  • Put it in a smoothie.
  • Make a sauce.
  • Add it to soup.
  • Bake with it.
  • Use it as a dipper for fruit and veggies.

Comments

3 Responses to “The PB&J sandwich: A Classic On National Peanut Butter Day”

  1. Hilda malone on January 24th, 2018 9:39 am

    I visited the Expo in Ga. a few years ago and of course they had everthing to do with peanuts they made toasted pb&j sandwich try this it is wonderful.

  2. anne 1of2 on January 24th, 2018 8:39 am

    Peanut butter and honey for the little ones makes it easier for little ones to swallow too.

  3. retired on January 24th, 2018 6:38 am

    Needs to be the food of the day (3 meals a day) at the jail, would save money. If they are allergic to PB&J then feed em soy.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under FEATURE TOP STORY, Features, News