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Peanut Butter Prices Hurt Food Banks
By: Associated Press
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Food banks around the country say rising peanut butter prices are making it harder for them to provide one of their most-requested items this holiday season.
The increase in the cost of peanut butter and food overall has been a blow to food banks and pantries that say they're serving more clients and having a harder time getting donations because of the economy.
Peanut butter is popular at food banks because it's a kid-friendly protein source that has a long shelf life and doesn't require special storage, cooking or utensils.
A smaller peanut crop this year prompted producers to raise prices.
Food banks say that means they'll buy or receive less peanut butter, pay more for it, or consider alternatives such as canned tuna or chicken.