The annual UF/IFAS Extension & FAMU Cooperative Extension Peanut Butter Challenge is back for October 2026.
This statewide food drive brings Florida communities together to support local food pantries while celebrating one of Florida’s major agricultural crops.
How the Challenge Works
- The Goal: Collect unopened, unexpired jars of peanut butter (any brand, size, or style—creamy and crunchy are both welcome!) to fight food insecurity ahead of the holiday season.
- The Competition: Counties across Florida compete for bragging rights to see who can gather the most peanut butter by weight/jar count before the drive ends.
- The Impact: Every jar collected stays in the county where it was donated and goes directly to local community food pantries.
Why Peanut Butter?
Peanut butter is one of the most requested items at food banks. It is nutrient-dense, shelf-stable, protein-rich, and popular across all ages. Plus, peanuts are a vital Florida crop—the state consistently ranks among the top producers in the U.S.
How to Participate
- Where to Drop Off: You can drop off jars at your local UF/IFAS Extension County Office (including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, and Manatee counties) as well as designated public collection bins at local libraries, parks, and government buildings throughout October.
- Organize a Drive: Local businesses, schools, and neighborhood groups can set up their own collection barrels and deliver gathered jars to their extension office by October 31.
Main Drop-Off Center
UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Click to open side panel for more information serves as the primary collection hub for the county’s peanut butter drive.
- Address: 1702 S. Holland Parkway (Hwy 17 S), Bartow, FL 33830
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Details: Collection barrels are available in the lobby during normal business hours throughout October.
Additional Local Collection Bins
During October, partner organizations and local government offices across Polk County often host temporary collection bins:
- Polk County Libraries & Government Buildings: Select county branch libraries and administrative centers set up collection barrels for public drop-offs.
- Community & 4-H Clubs: Local 4-H youth development clubs and community extension programs collect jars at scheduled events.
All collected unopened, unexpired peanut butter jars stay within Polk County to support local food banks and pantries ahead of the holiday season.