Peanut industry growers, shellers and buying points have formed the U.S. Peanut Federation (USPF) to serve as a unified voice in Washington, D.C., for all sectors of the peanut industry.

The USPF also will advocate for strong agricultural policy with a mission to protect, promote and improve business conditions for the peanut industry.

Alabama Peanut Producers Association Executive (APPA) Director Jacob Davis said the alliance will serve Alabama farmers well.

“There has been an unofficial coalition with the other segments of the peanut industry since the 2002 Farm Bill,” Davis said. “This new organization formalizes the partnership when it comes to advocating for the industry on agriculture policy and legislative issues. The USPF will only push an agenda item when all three segments are in agreement. Having a unified voice in Washington will enhance our mission of working to get the best program and policies for peanut producers.”

The USPF includes the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation (SPFF), the American Peanut Shellers Association and the National Peanut Buying Points Association. 

Formed in 1998, the SPFF is a producer organization that includes the APPA, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission and Mississippi Peanut Growers Association. The APPA is an affiliate of the Alabama Farmers Federation.

Premium Peanut President and CEO Karl Zimmer will serve as the first USPF chairman. 

For information about USPF, contact Joe Thomas at (202) 543-7464 or jthomas@reddingfirm.com.