Last week the Boston Globe ran an article on peanut butter, and I thought, “Why not talk about it here?” In the almost 40 years I’ve been writing about food, I don’t think I have done a deep dive into the delicious condiment that is so familiar to most Americans.
Technically, a condiment is a food product that is added to enhance the flavor and taste of other foods, much like ketchup, mustard or relish. It is also a source of nutrition and can be eaten on its own, but its function as a flavoring or topping for sandwiches, crackers and other dishes classifies it as a condiment.
The two best-known brands are Skippy and Teddie, but they differ significantly in their ingredients and preparation. Skippy often contains added oils and preservatives, while Teddie, particularly its natural variet