Who is VPGA?
The Virginia Peanut Growers Association and the Virginia Peanut Board represent nearly 200 peanut growers in the Commonwealth. Peanuts in Virginia are grown in eight counties in southeast Virginia on nearly 30,000 acres. Virginia has a rich and proud history of peanut production in the state, with the first commercial peanut crop being grown near Wakefield, Virginia in 1842 and the coining of the term the “Virginia-type” peanut. Virginia-type peanuts are known around the world for their large size and superior taste and quality. The VPGA board is made up of growers from each peanut growing county that are elected by their peers. The Virginia Peanut Board is established by the Code of Virginia and board members are appointed by the Governor. The Association is funded by an assessment of the annual peanut crop as set forth by the Code of Virginia. These organizations exist to market and promote Virginia peanuts, fund research, and serve as an advocate for the Virginia peanut industry.
This recipe collection brings together favorites from families, State Fair entries (and winners), and even recipes preserved from an earlier cookbook created by the Virginia and North Carolina Peanut Growers Associations. Each recipe reflects the tradition, creativity, and community that surround the humble peanut. We hope you enjoy trying them and celebrating peanuts—and the growers who make them possible—every time you cook.
Meet the Board
Virginia Peanut Board Members
Representing Isle of Wight
Representing Dinwiddie
Representing Southampton
Representing Suffolk
Representing Suffolk
Representing Isle of Wight
Representing Sussex
Representing Surry
Virginia Peanut Growers Association Board Members
Representing Dinwiddie
Representing Sussex
Representing Southampton
Representing Dinwiddie
Representing Greensville
Representing Isle of Wight
Representing Isle of Wight
Representing Sufolk
Representing Suffolk
Representing Prince George
Representing Southampton
Representing Southampton
Representing Southampton
Representing Southampton
Representing Surry
Representing Surry
Representing Sussex
By The Numbers.
Percent Planted by Type:
Virginia Peanut Growers Association
The Virginia Peanut Growers Association plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the legacy of peanut farming throughout the Commonwealth. With a grower-first perspective, the association supports initiatives that elevate Virginia-type peanuts through education, research partnerships, and industry outreach. Their work helps ensure that Virginia remains a national leader in peanut quality and production, while also advocating for the interests of farmers at the local, state, and federal levels. Through collaboration, policy support, and public awareness, VAPGA continues to advance the reputation and resilience of Virginia-grown peanuts.
aboutpeanuts.com/virginia
Caitlin Joyner
Executive Director, Virginia Peanut Growers Association
Program Director, Virginia Peanut Board
caitlin.joyner@aboutpeanuts.com
(540) 798- 7191
See all of our upcoming events here.