ATLANTA, Oct. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Looking for a nutritious, affordable alternative to your favorite jar of USA-grown peanut butter because you heard prices may be increasing?  Don't be so fast to switch, say registered dietitians.

A combination of factors ― including rising energy prices and severe heat and drought throughout peanut growing regions this year ― are leading to a peanut crop that is smaller than last year's.  As a result, some peanut butter manufacturers have recently announced they expect to raise prices.  

Still, according to the National Peanut Board, the cost of one serving of peanut butter (equivalent to one ounce, or two tablespoons) would increase less than four cents, from 12.7 to 16.5 cents.*  Breakfast, lunch, dinner and in between, peanut butter is a perfect ingredient for any meal or snack for people of all ages.

"Ounce for ounce, sandwich for sandwich, you still can't beat protein-packed peanut butter for value," said registered dietitians Janice Newell Bissex and Liz Weiss, authors of the new family cookbook, No Whine with Dinner.  "That's as true today as it has ever been, as food costs across the board rise."

Peanuts have more than 30 nutrients and are packed with more protein than any nut — seven grams per one ounce serving. Based on nutritional goals set by the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, peanuts are an excellent source of protein for children ages 1-13 and a good source of protein for adults.**  More than 90 percent of American households have one or more jars of peanut butter in their pantry.

The National Peanut Board represents USA peanut farmers and their families. Through research and marketing, the Board is finding new ways to enhance production and sustainability.  The Board also invests in nutrition research and provides educational outreach helping consumers, health and culinary professionals recognize the great taste, nutrition and culinary versatility of USA-grown peanuts. For more information, visit www.nationalpeanutboard.org.

* Based on expected price increase figures announced by The J.M. Smucker Company, manufacturer of Jif® – the nation's top selling brand.

**Based on the nutritional goals set by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans; Adults ages 18-50, Children ages 1-13.

SOURCE The National Peanut Board