Modern Peanut Industry

During the late nineteenth century three major peanut companies were launched. The first was started by two Italian immigrants who specialized in roasted peanuts. They named their company Planters Peanuts. In 1917 they created “Mr. Peanut,” which became an American culinary icon within a few years. The second company was initiated by John Harvey Kellogg, who popularized peanut butter beginning in 1894. During the early twentieth century peanut butter companies were started in many medium-size cities in the United States. Peanuts are often employed in making candy. Several of the most popular candies include peanuts, such as Baby Ruth bars, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Butterfingers, Clark candy bars, and Peanut M&M’s.