Our kids really had no opportunity NOT to love peanut butter. It was hardwired through the umbilical cord on the inside, and when they broke out, it was oozing through their exclusive breast milk for 4-6 months before introducing peanut paste into their foods. Yes. I love it. And now, so do they.
As a high allergen food, it is important to introduce peanuts ASAP, before 12 months of age.
It is a healthy food option, high in protein, antioxidants, fibre, vitamins & good fats. However, the added salt, sugar & oils in the more affordable main stream bought options, push them more into the "occasional" food category of a healthy diet. You do pay for what you get of course.
I've tasted the health food & now some supermarkets "make your own" options. I have not loved them, although I am sure I gave up trying way to early. This also made me really skeptical about making it myself. I assumed it would taste too healthy to be nice!
Not being known for doing anything in the kitchen that involved too much effort, I was still motivated enough to try making our own peanut butter, that the kids and my husband would easily convert over to with no fuss. Why? Because the hardest part was finding raw unsalted nuts that were locally sourced. Once we had those, the rest was super easy.
If you LOVE peanut butter, please do give this a try. You might be converted & feel more healthy for making the switch! If you can get a good local nut supplier for a good price, you will no doubt save some pennies on store bought. Plus, you get to control & know what goes into it!