The Atlanta Motor Speedway is declaring Sunday, March 8, as “Georgia Peanut Farmer Appreciation Day” during the Kobalt Tools 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race in recognition of Georgia’s official state crop.

It’s a show of support to Georgia-based peanut farmers who have been suffering due to the recent difficulties facing the industry, with the whole salmonella in peanut products problem.

The Georgia Peanut Commission will have a trackside billboard advertising Georgia peanuts, sampling opportunities on race day and a role in the Kobalt Tools 500 pre-race festivities. In addition, the Commission will have a sampling location and display in the Atlanta Motor Speedway Display Lot.

It is important to note here that the peanut industry is working closely with the Food and Drug Administration to address the salmonella issue and make sure that any tainted products are found and recalled. It is unfortunate that the actions of one company, the Peanut Corporation of America – which knowingly released a product with potential salmonella contamination into the food supply – is causing our good farmers to suffer. But – they will prevail and ultimately win this race. Go peanuts!!!