How do peanuts stack up in snacking?

Peanuts and peanut butter remain popular among Canadians; according to the latest market research conducted by Erickson Research, 95% of households coast-to-coast consume peanuts, with more than half enjoying them on at least a weekly basis. Here are some of the highlights from this research:

split screen of peanuts in bowl and peanut butter on toast

Peanuts: A sensational snack

Eighty-eight per cent of Canadians agree that peanuts make a good snack for adults. Unlike peanut butter, which is a breakfast favourite (73%), most Canadians don’t snack on peanuts until later in the day. The most popular times? Late evening (63%) followed by the afternoon (57%). With their protein content and satiety benefits, peanuts are the ideal grab-and-go snack between meals or after a workout.

Peanut butter hits peak popularity

Peanut butter has a history of being a pantry staple here in Canada! Since 2010, no fewer than 94% of those surveyed have said they eat peanut butter. With its almost universal appeal, the lovable spread has once again topped its previous best. Erickson’s 2016 research found that 97% of those surveyed eat peanut butter, including 79% of Canadians who eat it at least weekly.

As staggering as the above stats are, an even more impressive 98% of those surveyed from Québec are peanut butter consumers. Forty-one per cent of those surveyed from Québec eat peanut butter daily!

Salted remains Canada’s sweethearts

Unsurprisingly, the classic salted peanuts came out on top as the preferred variety of two-thirds of Canadians surveyed. In second and third place are dry roasted peanuts and flavoured peanuts, respectively.

Canadians value health benefits

Nine out of 10 agree that peanuts, and peanut products, are nutritious options. Among health-conscious Canadians, 97% eat peanuts and 59% eat them at least weekly, both figures higher than the national average. They are also more likely to eat peanuts or peanut butter as a snack between meals (55%) or at breakfast (77%) for an added protein boost.