3 minute read
The Unsung Heroes: How Peanut Growers Bring NPB Events to Life
from PQ 50
By Ashton Pellom
When you think of a peanut farmer, you picture fields of verdant greenery basking in the Southern sun. But these stewards of the land are also the heartbeat of the National Peanut Board (NPB), lending their expertise and warmth to events that bring peanuts to the forefront of culinary delight. Over the years, peanut growers have played a pivotal role in various NPB events, sharing their passion for peanuts and educating the public about this beloved legume.
At the 2015 Perfectly Powerful Peanut Pop-Up in New York City, acclaimed chef JJ Johnson and NPB partnered to celebrate peanuts. With sleeves rolled up, peanut growers mingled with food lovers, showcasing the nut’s incredible versatility — from everyday snacks to gourmet masterpieces, complete with farmers and their families doling out bags of peanuts on the bustling streets. Chef JJ’s culinary flair added an extra dash of excitement, offering a behind-the-scenes peek into the passion that goes into every peanut dish. The growers, the show’s true stars, captivated guests with tales of their craft, making each bite a delicious journey from farm to fork.
In 2021, NPB Vice Chairwoman Casey Cox Kerr appeared in Smosh’s YouTube series “Day Jobs.” Casey swapped roles with two gamers from the Smosh YouTube channel, taking viewers behind the scenes of life on a peanut farm. Her passion for sustainability and storytelling skills brought the daily grind of peanut farming to a global audience, turning ordinary viewers into peanut enthusiasts. To date, the video has close to 400K views on YouTube.
At the Next Gen Food Summit at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa, California, farmers Thomas Adams, Casey Cox Kerr, Lonnie Fortner and Les Crall used their wealth of knowledge to encourage food industry professionals to include peanuts on their menus and in their products. They transformed the summit into a lively exchange of ideas and innovations, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Fast forward to the 2024 Peanut Explorer’s Market, where peanut growers once again took center stage at Smorgasburg Williamsburg, a farmers market that attracts thousands. From explaining the intricacies of peanut cultivation to sharing samples of their finest produce, our farmers made the experience memorable for attendees. The Peanut Explorer’s Market wasn’t just a feast for the senses; it was a testament to the dedication and expertise of those who nurture the peanut industry.
“To come to a market like this and see people have a pure interest just in the peanut product itself, it’s truly amazing,” said NPB Chairman Greg Baltz.
Our peanut growers bring NPB events to life with their authenticity and expertise. Their involvement ensures that every event is not just memorable but also meaningful, celebrating the peanut industry and its essential role in our lives.
