Creamy or Chunky? Unpacking America’s Peanut Butter Preferences

Dec 13, 2024

Photo Credit: Maryam Sicard Via Unsplash

When it comes to peanut butter preferences, CivicScience data reveal a fascinating divide among U.S. adults. The majority of respondents lean towards creamy peanut butter, while 25% favor chunky with another 14% saying they enjoy both. This preference split is not just about taste; it reflects deeper demographic trends.

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Women are more likely to choose creamy peanut butter, while men show a stronger preference for chunky. This gender divide is notable, with over half of creamy fans being female and nearly 60% of chunky enthusiasts being male. Such a clear gender distinction in food preference is intriguing and suggests that marketing strategies could benefit from targeting these specific demographics.

Age also plays a noteworthy role in peanut butter preferences. Older Americans, particularly those aged 65 and above, are more inclined to choose creamy peanut butter. In contrast, younger adults, especially those aged 18-24, show a marked preference for chunky. This age-related trend might be linked to generational taste differences or even lifestyle choices, as younger people might associate chunky peanut butter with a more adventurous palate.

Parental status further distinguishes these groups. A surprising finding is that chunky peanut butter fans are twice as likely to be grandparents compared to creamy fans. This could suggest that chunky peanut butter is a nostalgic choice for older generations, or perhaps it’s a staple in households where grandparents are primary caregivers.

Education levels also show a divide. Those who prefer chunky peanut butter are more likely to have some college education but no degree, while creamy fans are evenly split between high school graduates and those with a bachelor’s degree. This educational disparity might reflect broader lifestyle or cultural differences that influence food choices.

Overall, CivicScience data highlight how peanut butter preferences are more than just a matter of taste. They reflect broader demographic trends, including gender, age, parental status, and education. These insights could be valuable for marketers and product developers looking to tailor their offerings to specific consumer segments. As peanut butter remains a staple in American households, understanding these preferences can help brands connect more effectively with their target audiences.

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This article’s data comes solely from CivicScience’s database, which contains nearly 700,000 poll questions and 5 billion consumer insights. Our AI content creation tool, DataScribe, supported the article.

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