Planters peanuts certified with AHA's Heart-Check mark

NORTHFIELD, Ill. — As February marks National Heart Health month, the American Heart Association (AHA) has certified two brands of Planters peanuts with its Heart-Check mark, which officially identifies heart-healthy foods.

Planters Lightly Salted Dry Roasted Peanuts and Planters Unsalted Dry Roasted Peanuts were the two brands certified by the AHA and will now display the AHA Heart-Check mark on its packaging.

"For years, Planters fans have enjoyed our peanuts for their delicious taste," said Peter Cotter, senior brand manager for Planters. "While many of our Planters Dry Roasted Peanuts have always been heart-healthy, we are now recognized by a respected and well-known authority committed to heart health."

To help spread the word about the heart health benefits of peanuts, Planters has teamed up with Harley Pasternak, celebrity fitness and nutrition expert. "When I'm training my clients, I always make sure they are making healthy choices in all aspects of their lives, particularly in their diets," Pasternak said. "Partnering with Planters was a natural decision since I encourage my clients to eat heart-healthy foods."

Mr. Peanut also is helping to spread the word with Valentine's Day video e-cards available via the "Keep That Heart Pumping" Facebook application. From Feb. 1 until Feb. 28, fans can choose from three sexy e-cards starring Mr. Peanut to get their friends swooning. The e-cards can be personalized in different ways, and fans that view or share them will also receive a coupon for Planters peanuts. Find the app on Mr. Peanut's Facebook page at Facebook.com/MrPeanut or go to KeepThatHeartPumping.com.