Break out your peanut butter coupons, because now is the time to use them. According to recent figures from the United States Department of Agriculture, hot, dry weather has caused a

in the U.S., and USDA officials predict a resulting 16 percent drop in total peanut supplies for 2011 and 2012, which means higher prices for peanut-based products.

A report from the

says wholesale prices for popular peanut butter brand Jif will increase 30 percent starting in November, and that Peter Pan will raise its prices as much as 24 percent in coming weeks. Luckily, if you have to stock up on something ahead of time to save money, peanut butter is a pretty good option, as it keeps for a relatively long time in storage.

Presumably peanut butter prices will return to normal if a better peanut crop is harvested next year. To keep your pantry stocked till then, consider buying extra peanut butter now and saving the additional jars until you need them. According to the website for

, the shelf lives of their products vary, but Creamy and Crunchy varieties of Peter Pan peanut butter have a recommended shelf life that is 18 months from the date of manufacture.

"Beyond this date, the product does not spoil, but may develop off-flavors due to age," the website says. "The end of the recommended shelf life is noted by the 'Best By' date stamped on the jar."

Eighteen months from the date of manufacture should be enough time carry you through the current peanut shortage, as long as next year's crop rebounds to former levels. Depending on how much peanut butter your family goes through, stocking up now could save you a bit of money in the long run.

How much peanut butter does your family go through? Will you be stocking up before prices rise? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or email me at

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