New England Ballpark Kicks Peanuts Off Their Menu For 2019
Peanuts and Cracker Jacks have been part of baseball for generations. The tradition comes to an end with the arrival of a new season in one ballpark..
The Hartford Yard Goats tested the waters last season by hosting two peanut-free games. This year, General Manager Mike Abramson wanted to go all in, according to the Hartford Courant. “With a family with kids who have a peanut allergy, they don’t have to hope their schedule matches up for one game, or hope there are five tickets together in a section of 100 tickets. They can come to any game and sit in any seat.”
Aside from the traditional component, there's also a financial to make up. According to the Hartford Courant, in 2018 the park sold more than 10,000 bags of peanuts, at $4 a bag.
What will replace the gold standard of baseball snacks? The food and beverage team is reportedly working on new concessions like caramel corn, and adding pre-packaged gluten-free snacks. There will also be vegan options.