PTNPA strongly promotes open markets, and sustained free trade between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico for market stability, continued economic growth and functional trading partnerships to benefit the success of the global nut industry and U.S. economy.

The Annual 2026 PTNPA DC Fly-In, held from May 18–20, brought together 24 PTNPA member companies to engage directly with federal agencies, policymakers and regulatory leaders. This diverse delegation of attendees showcased the breadth of the nut industry, representing every commodity and critical suppliers to the industry. 

“PTNPA applauds House Agriculture Committee Chairman Thompson for his leadership and commitment to America’s food and agriculture sector and his stewardship in overseeing the bipartisan passage of this Farm Bill,” said Jeannie Shaughnessy, PTNPA CEO. “The House Agriculture Committee hosted over 150 listening sessions throughout the nation and held an over 20-hour markup debate in order to produce a Farm Bill that truly fits the needs of the U.S. food and agriculture sector. PTNPA thanks the many bipartisan champions in the House of Representatives who introduced and supported underlying bill text and amendments that strengthen and benefit the nut industry. This bipartisan legislation includes many provisions that are vital to the sustainability and success of America’s nut industry, and we thank the House of Representatives for its passage.” 

The U.S. food and agriculture sector generates more than $10.4 trillion in economic activity, accounting for nearly 20% of total U.S. output. Specifically, America’s nut industry contributes $148.25 billion to the economy annually, generates $10.7 billion in exports, and supports more than half a million jobs. A strong, five-year Farm Bill is essential to keeping America’s nut industry thriving and growing. This bipartisan Farm Bill delivers real wins for the nut industry, a vital portion of America’s food and agriculture sector, including increased funding for expanded global markets, sustained funding for USDA ARS research facilities and programs, enhancements to crop insurance programs, and establish a new Specialty Crop Advisory Committee.  

PTNPA is committed to working with Members of Congress to help secure legislative wins for America’s nut industry. We applaud the U.S. House of Representatives for the bipartisan passage of the 2026 Farm Bill and urge the U.S. Senate to swiftly take action on the bill. 

Some key provisions for the nut industry include:

• Requiring the USDA to report to Congress how changes to or expiration of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement will affect the agriculture industry. 
• Guaranteed full and sustained funding through Fiscal Year 2031 for USDA ARS research centers, grants, and fellowships.
• Assisting Texas farmers and producers by requiring the USDA to report to Congress on authorities and programs that may be used to assist Texas agricultural producers affected by Mexico’s failure to deliver water to the U.S., under international treaty obligations.
• Establishing a federal working group to help South Texas agriculture producers who have been impacted by Mexico’s delays in delivering water required under a 1944 water treaty.
• Creating a new Specialty Crop Advisory Committee at the USDA. 
• Expanding crop insurance access for specialty crop growers by directing USDA’s Risk Management Agency to work more closely with producers to improve coverage options. 
• Doubling funding for the Market Access Program, the Foreign Market Development Program, and the Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops programs. 
• Prohibiting the USDA from imposing a new 25% cost-share requirement for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
• Directing USDA to work with HHS to develop a low-risk classification for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are typically consumed raw or with minimal processing, and update relevant nutrition and food safety and preparation regulations and guidelines for child care providers.
• Authorizing $200 million for a new local food procurement program, to be used largely by food banks.
  
   

 - State-Level Ingredient Bans and Extended Producer Responsibilities (EPR): Veronica Colas from Hogan Lovells will address operational impacts of state mandates vs. Federal uniformity and provide advice on navigating new requirements for packaging and sustainability.

 - Washington Regulatory Update: Martin Hahn of Hogan Lovells will provide PTNPA Members with key topics of greatest importance to the nut industry, considering geopolitical and other contributors to timely nut industry obstacles and opportunities.

 - Industry Coalitions and Alliances: After highlighting the benefits and importance of PTNPA collaborating with food industry partners to align purpose and outcomes, Sara Love Rawlings, Managing Partner at SL Strategies, will assist in equipping PTNPA Members with intelligence for high-stakes meetings on Capitol Hill. 

On Wednesday, May 20, PTNPA Members will conduct day-long meetings with Congressional leaders, staff, and key committees. These interactions are vital to reinforcing the massive economic contributions of the nut industry, along with the operational realities of the nut processing sector. 

Learn more about the PTNPA DC Fly-In at https://www.ptnpa.org/fly-in.  

The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA) will host the 11th annual Operations and Technical Food Safety Forum, well established as the nut industry’s most rigorous and specialized gathering for industry professionals. The Forum will take place June 24–25, 2026, at the Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center in Oak Brook, Illinois.

“The PTNPA is proud to continue our annual tradition of gathering professionals from all departments of nut industry manufacturing companies, along with unmatched food safety solution providers. This year's program feels especially important given the significant shifts in global commerce and the regulatory environment,” said Jeannie Shaughnessy, CEO, PTNPA. “As 'The Voice of America’s Nut Industry, ' we will ensure that the nut industry remains ahead of the curve for innovation and compliance related to quality and food safety.”

With the goal of providing comprehensive "big picture" strategic insights, as well as tactical solutions, the Forum offers two distinct educational and networking tracks:

Technical track – curated for executives, QA teams, regulatory, finance, and sales marketing professionals, will explore regulatory navigation, retailer expectations, and hazard analysis challenges and action.

Operational track – designed for facility managers, maintenance staff, logistics, and sanitation teams, focuses on practical implementation, AI on the facility floor, equipment maintenance, and sanitation efficiency.

The dual-track structure of the Forum allows organizations to synchronize their technical and operational arms, ensuring that food safety is not a siloed responsibility of one department but a core function of the entire company.

The 2026 PTNPA Operations and Technical Food Safety Forum features:

Keynote Address by Rod Wheeler: Founder and CEO of The Global Food Defense Institute, Mr. Wheeler will provide executive perspectives on asset protection and the evolving landscape of food defense.

Pest Control Panel: Dr. Spencer Walse (USDA-ARS), R.D. Cathey (FTS Laboratories), and John Mueller (The Fumigation Company) lead a specialized Pest Control Panel that bridges the gap between laboratory science, practical fumigation, and federal research to provide targeted solutions for the unique challenges of the nut industry.

Cracking the Code on Food Safety Culture: Led by Dr. Yvonne Masters, this session provides a roadmap for establishing a thriving food safety culture by securing buy-in from every level of staff—including temporary employees—and utilizing tangible metrics to drive engagement and accountability throughout your nut processing operations.

Washington Regulatory Update: Martin Hahn of Hogan Lovells will decipher the latest Federal and State laws and regulations affecting the nut industry and their impact on nut processing facilities and operations.

Investigating Hazard Analysis: John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.’s Global Sourcing Quality Manager, Rachel Lang, will lead a session on root cause problems and solutions.

Traceability Rule Training: Hilary Thesmar from FMI will give practical guidance on the FSMA Traceability Rule. 

FSMS Planned Maintenance on Equipment: Learn how to conduct planned maintenance on equipment to comply with HACCP and FSMA requirements from Dr. Darlene Cowart of Birdsong Peanuts.

The Forum fosters a unique culture of collaborative problem-solving through interactive and entertaining sessions, including the "Food Safety Gameshow,” which transforms theoretical knowledge into shared best practices during a friendly competition.

Beyond the classroom, the Midwest Networking Reception at the Tin Cup Bar & Grille on Tuesday, June 23rd, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.

Registration is now open, and early registration rates end on June 5, 2026. Group discounts are available.

To learn more about the PTNPA Operations and Technical Food Safety Forum, please visit https://www.ptnpa.org/forum.

Meet the full PTNPA Board of Directors and Advisory Board here.

Additionally, we are excited to announce new leadership for our standing committees: Christina Chattman (Wonderful Pistachios and Almonds) will serve as the Advocacy and Government Relations Chair, where fellow Board Member Eric Leonard (Truly Good Foods) joins her as co-chair. Justin Hintlian (Superior Nut Co., Inc.) will now lead the Sustainability Committee as Chair, where committee member Robin DeLauter (Mars Wrigley) joins as Co-Chair. 

These leaders play a vital role in executing our mission, from the Sustainability Committee's commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices to the Advocacy and Government Relations Committee's critical work tracking regulatory issues.
 
We thank all our volunteers for their dedicated service to the industry and encourage all Members to get involved by joining a committee.

Learn more about PTNPA committees here.

This mission follows a landmark trade agreement negotiated by President Trump in July of last year, which opened new opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to the Philippines. Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering will lead the mission, heading a delegation of 58 U.S. agribusinesses, trade associations, and representatives from four State departments of agriculture. 

“USDA is committed to getting American farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses better access to strong markets and fair opportunities abroad,” said Deputy Undersecretary Bekkering. “Since the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing markets in Asia, this mission will connect U.S. exporters directly with reliable buyers, strengthen our trade relationship, and help keep American agriculture globally competitive.”  

The Philippines is the tenth largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years. With a population of 118 million, a rapidly expanding middle class, and strong consumer preference for U.S. products, the Philippines offers enormous growth potential for American exporters. 

During the visit, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service staff and regional experts will host market briefings, site visits, and business-to-business meetings with buyers from the Philippines.  
State departments of agriculture from Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska and Wisconsin will join the mission alongside the 58 agribusinesses and trade associations, which include: 

1. 7th Sky Ventures LLC – Tampa, Fla.
2. Aerocos International Ltd – Marlboro, N.J.
3. American Egg Board – Chicago, Ill.
4. American Peanut Council – Alexandria, Va.
5. Best Buy Grocers, Inc. – Sherman Oaks, Calif.
6. BNutty, Peanut Butter – Portage, Ind.
7. California Milk Advisory Board – Tracy, Calif.   
8. California Table Grape Commission – Fresno, Calif.
9. CAS InterGlobal – Pleasanton, Calif.
10. Commercial Creamery Company – Spokane, Wash.
11. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin – Madison, Wis.
12. Dragonfly Cakes – Tacoma, Wash.
13. East-West International Group, Inc –   Moreland Hills, Ohio.
14. Foodlinx – Brentwood, Calif.
15. Fort McCoy Meat, LLC – Fort McCoy, Fla. 
16. Galdisa USA – Conroe, Texas 
17. Global Export Marketing Co. Ltd. (GEMCO) – New York, N.Y. 
18. Globex International – New York, N.Y.
19. Groceries USA – New York, N.Y. 
20. Grove Services – Atlanta, Ga.
21. Indiana Corn Marketing Council – Indianapolis, Ind.
22. International Market Brands – Issaquah, Wash.
23. Intervision Foods – Atlanta, Ga.
24. Jack's Alimentary Supply, Inc. (JASI) – Lowell, Mass. 
25. Kizable, LLC – Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
26. MacDonald Meat – Seattle, Wash.  
27. MEM Fairway Inc. – Irvine, Calif.
28. Nebraska Corn Board – Lincoln, Neb.
29. North American Export Grain Association – Washington, D.C.
30. Ocean Gold Seafoods – Westport, Wash.
31. Pacific Cheese Co., Inc. – Hayward, Calif.
32. PacRim Wines & Spirits – San Rafael, Calif.
33. Potatoes USA – Denver, Colo.
34. Prime Pecan, LLC – Ocean Springs, Miss. 
35. Raisin Administrative Committee – Fresno, Calif.
36. Scout & Zoe’s – Anderson, Ind.
37. Sollarom Foods – Lakewood, Calif.
38. Southern Forest Products Association – Metairie, La.
39. Space Enterprises LLC – The Woodlands, Texas
40. TAG Enterprise Ltd. – Beverly Hills, Calif.
41. Tomex Foods Group – Lombard, Ill.
42. Tranect LLC – Boston, Mass.
43. Trinity Foods, Inc – San Diego, Calif. 
44. U.S. Dairy Export Council – Arlington, Va. 
45. U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council – Washington, D.C. 
46. U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council – Folson, Calif.
47. U.S. International Foods LLC – St. Louis, Mo.
48. U.S. Livestock Genetics Export – Mount Horeb, Wis.
49. U.S. Meat Export Federation – Denver, Colo.
50. U.S. Soybean Export Council – Chesterfield, Mo. 
51. U.S. Wheat Associates – Arlington, Va.
52. United Dairy Ingredients Group LLC – Monterey Park, Calif. 
53. US Rice Producers Association – Katy, Texas   
54. USA Poultry and Egg Export Council – Tucker, Ga.
55. USA Pulses – Moscow, Idaho
56. Valley Pride Ag Co. – Fresno, Calif.
57. Virginia Distillery Co. – Lovingston, Va.
58. Wonderful Citrus – Delano, Calif.  

In 2025, USDA trade missions connected more than 200 U.S. companies with buyers in Hong Kong, Thailand, Peru, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Taiwan and Mexico, generating projected 12 month sales of $125 million. USDA will continue expanding export opportunities in 2026 with upcoming missions planned for Australia and Vietnam.  

For more information on USDA trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions.

PTNPA is proud to be among the 35 food and agriculture groups to support the tenth annual Feeding the Economy report, a farm-to-fork study of the entire agricultural supply chain.

The report analyzes the direct and indirect economic contributions of one of America’s most essential industries to U.S. jobs, wages, economic output, and taxes.

"The nut industry is an economic powerhouse, supporting more than 515,000 jobs and contributing $148.25 billion to the U.S. economy with $10.69 billion in exports annually," said Jeannie Shaughnessy, CEO, PTNPA. "Feeding the Economy magnifies data-backed proof that the entire food and beverage industry is a formidable force for the U.S. economy and global trade."

The 2026 Feeding the Economy report confirms that America’s food and agriculture industries remain a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, generating more than $10.4 trillion in economic value—representing nearly 20% of the overall national economy. This marks an increase of nearly $894 billion year-over-year, reflecting growth across the agricultural value chain amid ongoing inflation pressures, a challenging farm economy, and an uncertain global trade environment. 

America’s food and agriculture sector supports 48.7 million jobs across the economy, including nearly 24.3 million direct jobs in farming, manufacturing, processing, distribution, retail, and foodservice. Direct employment has grown 6.5% over the past decade, though job growth slowed in the past year as parts of the sector faced economic pressures. 

Additional highlights from the 2026 Feeding the Economy report include:
• Food and agriculture generate more than $3 trillion in wages for American workers, with wages rising 4% year-over-year and 13% over the past decade, generally outpacing inflation. 
• Food manufacturing remains the largest manufacturing sector in the United States, employing more than 2.28 million workers. 
• U.S. food and agriculture exports totaled more than $177.3 billion, though exports declined by roughly $5.4 billion year-over-year, underscoring the importance of maintaining strong trade agreements and expanding market access for American producers. 
• The food and agriculture sector generates $1.35 trillion in tax revenue for federal, state, and local governments, a 7% increase year-over-year. 

Despite the industry’s continued economic impact, the report reveals several emerging challenges. Direct employment in production agriculture and food manufacturing remained largely flat year-over-year, reflecting pressures on farmers, producers, and rural communities. Export values have also declined in inflation-adjusted terms over the past decade, further demonstrating the importance of stable and reliable international markets for U.S. agriculture. 

See the full Feeding the Economy report.

See the full PTNPA Nut Numbers Economic Impact Report.

Sponsoring organizations from the food and agriculture industries, who helped make the 2026 study possible, provided commentary on this year’s findings. The full list of sponsoring organizations includes:
American Bakers Association
American Beverage Association
American Farm Bureau Federation
American Frozen Food Institute
American Soybean Association
Association of Equipment Manufacturers
Consumer Brands Association
Corn Refiners Association
CropLife America
Edible Oil Producers Association
Farm Credit Council
The Fertilizer Institute
FMI- The Food Industry Association
Global Cold Chain Alliance
International Dairy Foods Association
International Fresh Produce Association
Meat Institute
National Association of Manufacturers
National Association of State Departments of Agriculture
National Association of Wheat Growers
National Corn Growers Association
National Farmers Union
National Grain and Feed Association
National Grocers Association
National Milk Producers Federation
National Oilseed Processors Association
National Pork Producers Council
North American Millers' Association
Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association
Pet Food Institute
Plant Based Products Council
The Sugar Association
U.S. Dairy Export Council
U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council
United Soybean Board

PTNPA, a successful national trade association with highly engaged members and established industry events seeks a full-time professional to support PTNPA members throughout the year and during signature events.

PTNPA is eager to welcome a highly organized, proactive, and enthusiastic team member who shares a commitment to excellence, creativity, constant improvement and professional growth in this important role. 

Ability to efficiently multi-task and work in fast-paced environment is paramount, and maintaining a sense of humor and team spirit will be key to achievement and satisfaction.   

Responsibilities:

• Membership Database Management (AMS): Proactively manage database in timely and accurate manner. Professionally support member requests (both written and verbal), update Member directory listings, distribute invoices and track payments. Provide recommendations to improve efficiencies, incorporate AI tools and offer input to enhance database operations. 
• Member Communications: Provide support including clear verbal and written outreach and responses to members. Track ongoing member communications and related campaign metrics and maintain segmented lists in database for Committees, media, sub-contractors, and key industry influencers. 
• Events Administration: In collaboration with team members, assist with vendor coordination, website and mobile app updates, sponsor communications and confidently engage with members to assist with on-site registration at events. 
• Financial and Operational Administration: Assist with financial report preparation, including compilation of organizational transactions, receipt management and bank and accounting submissions. Assist with Board meeting planning and material preparation. 
• Team and Committee Support: Serve as the “point of contact” responsible for managing the team calendar and agendas for meetings and retreats. File and track committee meeting minutes and Sharepoint channels for all Committees and team functional areas. 

Candidate Profile: 

• Proven office experience with consistent proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 suite tools. 
• Database management (AMS) experience and demonstration of accuracy and platform compliance. 
• Proven ability to understand and translate financial information and accurately track revenue and billing. 
• Outstanding customer service skills, including clear and respectful verbal and written communications. 
• Ability to develop and refine reporting tools (Excel-based dashboard, renewal metrics, etc.) for team and organization.
• Commitment to constant improvement, contributing to shared success, positive disposition and productive work environment. 

Company Details:

• Learn more about PTNPA here.
• Full time; remote/hybrid. Please note: first 90 days will require 3 days per week in Germantown, MD office for training. Some travel (with advanced notice) may be required for Team meetings/retreats and PTNPA events.
• $55k-$65k, commensurate with skills and experience.
• Additional benefits include: 401K with employer match; healthcare reimbursement and remote office support. 

To be considered: 

• Please email careers@ptnpa.org with cover letter and resume before March 23rd, 2026
• Only those applicants being considered for an interview will be contacted. 

The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA) will host the 2026 West Coast Food Safety Symposium, an intensive one-day gathering of industry experts on March 25, 2026, at the California State University, Fresno, Craig School of Business.

Positioned in the heart of the world’s most productive tree nut growing region, this Symposium serves as a practical opportunity to navigate both Federal and California regulatory dynamics. This PTNPA program offers ideal timing for facilities to refine their operational strategies before the 2026 harvest and processing cycle begins.

“The PTNPA proudly serves as a bridge between high-level policy considerations and the daily food safety and quality realities within nut processing facilities,” said Jeannie Shaughnessy, CEO of PTNPA. “By convening high-caliber discussions PTNPA supports the conversion of regulatory challenges into opportunities for professional growth and business compliance.”

The symposium features a deep dive into specific hurdles facing California-based operations, a strategic necessity for defending nut industry domestic and international success. This event also offers attendees educational sessions from scientific theory to practical facility safety tips.

"Ensuring the safety and quality of nut products is a paramount responsibility for our industry. During this Symposium, we will present scientifically grounded strategies and practical solutions to address microbial risks, equipping professionals with the tools needed to uphold the highest standards in food safety," said Michael Campagna, PTNPA Technical Committee Chair and Vice President Quality, Food Safety, and Regulatory at John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

The robust schedule of sessions at the Symposium transforms theory into practice, and attendees will:

• Analyze the specific "hiccups" and technical missteps encountered by Approved Process Authorities to prepare for validation audits
• Explore aflatoxin research and chemical complexities
• Translate concepts into concrete procedures that satisfy the most rigorous state and federal inspections
• Visit the Exhibit Marketplace which features cutting-edge product solutions and technical innovations designed to modernize safety protocols and enhance operations

Following the Symposium, hundreds of PTNPA Members and industry representatives will gather at the PTNPA Regional Networking Event at Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. – Campus Pointe (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM).

The PTNPA 2026 West Coast Food Safety Symposium prioritizes being “The Voice of America’s Nut Industry” with Registration rates of $175 per attendee, offering discounts available for companies sending multiple representatives.

For more information, visit https://www.PTNPA.org/Symposium.

Hosting four distinct food safety events will ensure that national and regionally tailored knowledge and solutions are offered to continually solve food safety challenges in all corners of the nut industry.

“The PTNPA Food Safety Series brings Member companies high-impact, regionally designed, packed programs to benefit professionals who keep our industry safely running every day,” said Jeannie Shaughnessy, CEO, PTNPA. “Our commitment to stellar and cost-effective food safety education is critical to our goal of constantly offering safe and affordable products to consumers.”

Opportunities for networking, professional development and knowledge sharing during the 2026 PTNPA Food Safety Series Schedule are as follows:
• West Coast Food Safety Symposium: March 25, 2026 – California State University, Fresno
• Operations and Technical Food Safety Forum: June 23-24, 2026 – Oak Brook, IL
• Northeast Food Safety Symposium: October 14, 2026 – Jersey City, NJ
• NEW: Southeast Food Safety Symposium: November 4, 2026 – University of Georgia, Tifton

“Expanding engagement and expertise to Georgia is a testament to the growth and necessity of this educational series,” said Angelo Losurdo, PTNPA Vice Chair and Golden Peanut Director of Quality and Food Safety. 

“Whether during a one-day intensive regional session, or the flagship two-day forum in Chicago, the PTNPA Food Safety Series provides relevant, timely, and critical knowledge required to successfully operate businesses and navigate the increasingly complex regulatory environment,” added Steve Zaffarano, PTNPA Chair and President of Diamond Foods, LLC.

Registration for the first event of the series is now open. Click here to view the full 2026 schedule. To learn more and register for the West Coast Food Safety Symposium, please visit PTNPA.org/symposium.

Whether you are navigating state-specific hurdles or looking to prepare your facility for inspections, we have the content  you need.
 
When: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Where:  California State University, Fresno, Craig School of Business

Why You Need to Be in Fresno

Crack the Complex California Regulatory Landscape

Join our exclusive session on the Regulatory Landscape of California to prepare for the specific food safety regulations coming down the pipeline that will impact your business.

Prepare for Your Next Audit

Science Meets Strategy

The intersection of science and the nut industry!

Learn about the chemical complexities and concerns of tree nuts, the latest on aflatoxin research, and how new techniques in fighting biofilms in dry settings are being used in our industry.  

Get the technical knowledge that keeps your product safe and your shelf-life long!

Exhibit Marketplace and Networking 

Join us for networking opportunities with your colleagues in the nut industry, and explore our Exhibit Marketplace to see new products and product solutions to enhance your operations.

Then, come to Mad Duck Craft Brewing Co. - Campus Pointe for our West Coast Networking Reception from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM.

Registration Information

The registration rate starts at a reasonable $175/attendee with discounts available for multiple attendees. 

Click here to see more details about this event and register before March 6th, when registration increases!

 

The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA) successfully concluded its  2026 Convention  in Scottsdale, AZ, uniting an assembly of hundreds of Members for four days of strategic planning, networking, and industry advancement.

This gathering not only celebrated the industry’s collaborative spirit but also equipped its leaders with the critical insights needed to navigate the future. The Convention’s forward-looking agenda was anchored by the release of powerful new data quantifying the industry’s significant economic contributions.

          A highlight of the Convention was the official launch of the "Nut Numbers: The Economic Impact of the Nut Industry Report ," the PTNPA's first-ever economic impact study dedicated to the nut processing sector. The report's findings were presented by its author, Dr. Michael Flaherty of John Dunham & Associates (JDA), during a dedicated general session.

          This groundbreaking report provides a comprehensive analysis of the industry's economic contributions across diverse regions and sectors. For the first time, the PTNPA has armed its Members with a robust dataset that quantifies their collective impact, providing critical, fact-based leverage for advocacy, strategic planning, and business development. This data-driven approach reflects the association's commitment to fortifying its role as the industry's leading voice, a mission that was further reinforced during the annual business meeting.

          The PTNPA Annual Business Meeting provided a key forum for members to review the association's impact in 2025 and chart a strategic course for the year ahead. Underscoring a commitment to robust governance and forward momentum, the membership  elected new Officers and Directors to guide the organization.

          The meeting also showcased the vital work of the PTNPA’s committees, with committee chairs—all of whom are Board members—presenting  key initiatives and progress from the past year . These committees are instrumental in bringing the association's mission of being "The Voice of America’s Nut Industry" to life.

Beyond the formal meetings, the PTNPA 2026 Convention proved to be a vibrant hub for building relationships, advancing professional development, and strengthening community ties.

•  Premier Networking Events: The agenda was filled with opportunities for members to connect, including the New Member Reception, lively evening receptions, and the "Boots & Bowties" Finale Dinner, which provided a memorable conclusion to the event.
•  High-Impact General Sessions: Attendees gained critical insights from top-tier speakers, including an economic outlook with Scott Clemons of Brown Brothers Harriman, a regulatory update from Washington insider Martin Hahn of Hogan Lovells , an exclusive CEO perspective from Jeffrey Sanfilippo of John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc., and a crucial analysis of consumer behavior with Lynn Dornblaser of Mintel .
•  In-Depth Commodity Panels: A cornerstone of the convention, in-depth panels provided invaluable education on  almonds, peanuts, walnuts, black walnuts, pecans, pistachios, cashews, hazelnuts, and macadamias , empowering attendees to make informed business decisions.
•  Community and Charitable Engagement: The industry’s commitment to social responsibility was on full display. The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service featured a "Nut Butter & Jelly Challenge" benefiting the Desert Mission Food Bank with a whopping 580 lbs. of donated goods, while the annual Charity 5K Nut Run and Walk raising $5,000, also for the Desert Mission Food Bank.            

The Convention concluded with a clear sense of purpose, with Members equipped not only with groundbreaking economic data and market insights but also with the strengthened relationships necessary to drive the industry forward in 2026.

Members can access all presentations here.

See images from the event here. (All images will be available in February 2026.)

We welcomed two new Board Members: Brad Larsen from ofi and Eric Leonard from Truly Good Foods.

The Executive Committee is now comprised of Chair Steve Zaffarano, Vice Chair Angelo Losurdo, and Treasurer Sean Denfeld.

Thank you, Joel Perkins, for your service as the PTNPA Chair, marking his second (nonconsecutive) term in this critical role.

PTNPA also honors and celebrates Angela York Bauer for her 34 years of dedication to the organization as a Board Member. As she comes off of the Board, we look forward to continual engagement with her - plenty more to come!

First row L-R: Eric Leonard, Mia Cohen, James Ohland, Joel Perkins, Jeannie Shaughnessy, Angelo Losurdo, Steve Zaffarano, Sean Denfeld, Jeannine Campos Grech

Second row L-R: Christina Chattman, Brad Larsen, Justin Hintlian, Michael Campagna, David Birdsong, Martin Hahn, George Argires, Steve O'Mara, Craig Leva, Erin Jordan, John Drehobl

Learn more about PTNPA's Board of Directors.

Thank you to our returning Advisory Board members. The PTNPA Advisory Board is comprised of individuals from PTNPA Associate Member organizations and are volunteers who serve as advisors on specific categories of business within the peanut and tree nut industry.

A special thanks to Jack Eustace for his hard work and dedication to PTNPA - we wish you well in your retirement!

Learn more about PTNPA's Advisory Board.

The Peanut and Tree Nut Processors Association (PTNPA) is proud to announce the release of its first-ever economic impact report, “Nut Numbers: The Economic Impact of the Nut Industry.” This comprehensive study defines the significant economic contributions of the nut industry in the United States. The report and interactive electronic map show current economic factors and contributions nationwide and by state.

The report reveals the U.S. nut industry generates $148.25 billion annually and demonstrates job creation of 515,107 jobs nationally, showcasing an industry deeply integrated throughout the country.

“Offering data-backed evidence of the nut industry’s economic significance is a meaningful step in the history of the PTNPA,” said Joel Perkins, CEO, Horizon Nut and PTNPA Chairman. “As the Voice of America’s Nut Industry this report proves the value, importance, and impact of our robust industry.”

The report highlights economic influence of the nut industry, encompassing jobs, wages, and direct outputs linked to the peanut and tree nut sectors. 

“This report serves as a source of pride and a powerful tool for future context, education and advocacy,” said Jeannie Shaughnessy, CEO, PTNPA. “Concrete evidence of our economic contributions will inspire industry leaders as we continue to engage with government representatives and policymakers with unprecedented authority.”

As a contributor to the U.S. tax base, the nut industry pays $15.70 billion in total taxes. Meanwhile, the industry powers an impressive $10.69 billion in annual exports, making major contributions to the global market.

The PTNPA “Nut Numbers” report marks a landmark moment, transforming how the U.S. nut industry understands itself and advocates for its future. It reveals that the sector is far more than a pantry staple—it is a powerful and essential engine of the national economy.

To see the full report and interactive data map, go to https://www.ptnpa.org/nutnumbers.

PTNPA was contacted by GAO to participate in this report to express our Members' concerns and beliefs, and is listed as one of the 17 stakeholders.

Learn more here.

The newly released, Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030, show what PTNPA and our Members have always known, peanuts and tree nuts are healthy commodities and their products are high in protein and healthy fats. Increasing your regular consumption of these nutritious commodities can help contribute to a healthy lifestyle. We applaud the Administration for recognizing the high nutritional benefits of nuts and nut products and encouraging their regular consumption in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030. Additionally, we are encouraged that the Administration has included information regarding the introduction of peanuts and tree nuts to infants in order to reduce the potential of a lifelong allergy. 

Learn more here.

Of the $12 billion being provided by the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, up to $11 billion is being directed to eligible row crop producers and the remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in assistance is reserved for specialty crops and sugar. Timelines for payments to producers of these crops are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs. Producers, including specialty crop producers and stakeholder groups, can submit questions to farmerbridge@usda.gov.  

Commodity, Per Acre Payment Rates:

Peanuts: $55.65
Sesame: $13.68
Sunflower: $17.32

Learn more here.