Georgia is the no. 1 state for peanut production in the U.S., and southwest Georgia in particular is peanut central. And in the southwest corner of the state, just outside Albany, farmers are experimenting with ‘organic’ peanuts, grown in wild fields with weeds and natural grasses, and not sprayed with typical chemicals to treat pests. Georgia farmers have already experienced success marketing organic blueberries, and now some are looking to do the same with peanuts. It’s a difficult process because the entire production and supply chain must follow organic processes, separate from normal peanuts. But organic peanuts (and peanut butter) can sell for as much as double the price of regular ones. It’s a niche market that can serve as a lifeline for innovative young farmers in Albany, Tifton, and beyond.
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