How Peanut Butter is Made......

Introduction

This tutorial explains the process of how peanut butter is manufactured in a factory setting. Understanding this process not only provides insight into food production but also highlights the nutritional benefits and considerations of peanut butter.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Peanuts

• The best peanuts for making peanut butter are Runner peanuts.
• These peanuts are uniform in size, which allows for even roasting.
• They arrive at the factory already shelled.

Step 2: Roasting the Peanuts

• Peanuts are roasted in a hot air roaster at a temperature of 204°C (400°F).
• The roasting process takes place with a shaking motion to ensure even cooking.
• This factory processes over 3,600 kg (about 8,000 lbs) of peanuts per hour.
• After roasting, the peanuts change color from white to light brown.

Step 3: Cooling the Peanuts

• Peanuts are rapidly cooled at room temperature using suction fans that circulate air quickly.
• This cooling process is critical to stop cooking and prevent loss of oil.

Step 4: Blanching the Peanuts

• The peanuts then go through a blanching machine to remove outer skins.
• The machine uses rubber belts to rub the peanuts, splitting the kernels and removing the bitter heart.
• Discarded skins are repurposed for pig feed, while the hearts are used for bird feed.

Step 5: Grinding the Peanuts

• The blanched peanuts are transferred to a large stainless steel container.
• They are then ground into a paste in a grinder.

Step 6: Adding Ingredients

• At this stage, other ingredients are added:
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • A small amount of hydrogenated vegetable oil (as a stabilizer)
• This stabilizer helps prevent the peanut oil from separating and floating to the top.

Step 7: Heating and Cooling the Paste

• The mixing process heats the peanut paste to 60°C (140°F).
• It then passes through a cooling system to reach 38°C (100°F) before packaging.

Step 8: Packaging the Peanut Butter

• The peanut butter is transferred into jars.
• A capping machine applies caps that contain an aluminum seal.
• The caps are heat-treated to create an airtight seal.
• A machine prints the production and expiration dates on the jars.

Step 9: Storage and Shelf Life

• Unopened jars of peanut butter can stay fresh for up to one year.
• Once opened, the peanut butter may last only a week, especially in homes with kids.

Conclusion

Peanut butter production involves several key steps, from selecting the right peanuts to packaging the final product. By understanding this process, you can make informed choices about the types of peanut butter you consume, including the benefits of natural options without stabilizers. Consider trying different types of peanut butter to find the one that best meets your nutritional preferences and taste!