Introduction
Alright, here’s a fun question for you—are peanuts really nuts? Sounds simple, right? It’s a nut. Case closed. Except… it’s not. Peanuts aren’t actually nuts at all! Mind = blown.
I remember the first time I found this out, and honestly? I refused to believe it. I mean, come on—the word “nut” is literally in the name! But nope, turns out science loves messing with us. Peanuts are actually legumes, which means they have more in common with peas, beans, and lentils than with almonds or walnuts. Yeah, let that sink in for a second.
Now, before you start thinking, Wait… so peanuts and peas are basically the same thing?!—hold up. Just because they share the same plant family doesn’t mean you’ll be dipping your fries in pea butter anytime soon. Peanuts might be legumes, but they sure don’t act like peas. They’re crunchy, packed with protein, and sit proudly next to cashews and pistachios in every grocery store. So, if they look like nuts, taste like nuts, and we eat them like nuts… why aren’t they nuts?
Good question. The answer has everything to do with how they grow. Real nuts—like almonds and walnuts—grow on trees inside hard shells. Peanuts, on the other hand, grow underground in pods—kind of like secret little treasures hiding in the dirt. That’s a big enough difference for scientists to slap a “legume” label on them, even if the rest of us still toss them into trail mix without a second thought.
So, what’s the deal? Why do peanuts have such an identity crisis? And if they’re not nuts, why do we treat them like they are? That’s exactly what we’re about to dive into. By the time we’re done, you’ll finally have a solid answer to the age-old question: Are peanuts peas or nuts? (And trust me, you’ll never look at a peanut butter sandwich the same way again.
What Exactly is a Peanut? Breaking Down the Confusion
Alright, so we’ve already uncovered the shocking truth—peanuts aren’t actually nuts. But if they’re not, then what are they? The answer lies in how they grow, how they’re classified, and why people keep calling them nuts anyway. Let’s break it down.
Peanuts vs. True Nuts – What’s the Difference?
Most of us assume that peanuts belong in the same category as almonds, cashews, and walnuts. After all, they look the same, they have that familiar crunch, and they’re always found sitting side by side in every grocery store. But here’s where things get interesting—true nuts grow on trees, while peanuts grow underground. That’s a pretty big deal.
Let’s look at real nuts for a second. Walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts all develop inside hard shells that grow on trees. When they’re ripe, they fall to the ground, and we crack them open to get to the good stuff inside. Peanuts? Not the same story. Instead of hanging from branches, they form underground inside pods, almost like a hidden treasure waiting to be dug up.
This difference in growth is one of the biggest reasons why peanuts aren’t classified as true nuts. Botanically speaking, if it doesn’t grow on a tree, it’s not a nut. Simple as that.
The Legume Connection – Are Peanuts Peas or Nuts?
Here’s where things get even weirder. Peanuts are actually legumes, which means they’re more closely related to peas, lentils, chickpeas, and beans than they are to almonds or cashews. Yeah, let that sink in for a second.
The reason peanuts are considered legumes is because of how they grow. Unlike true nuts, which develop inside hard outer shells, legumes grow in soft pods that split open when they’re ripe. Think about peas—when you open a pea pod, you see the little peas lined up inside. Peanuts grow the same way! Instead of developing a hard shell like a walnut, they form inside a pod that can be easily opened.
Now, does that mean peanuts and peas taste the same? Not at all. While they’re technically in the same plant family, peanuts have their own unique flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. They’re high in protein, loaded with healthy fats, and have that signature nutty crunch—nothing like soft, sweet green peas.
Why Do People Still Call Peanuts Nuts?
If peanuts aren’t nuts, then why do we treat them like they are? The simple answer? They act like nuts in almost every way.
They’re high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber—just like tree nuts.
They have a crunchy texture and roasted flavor.
They’re used in peanut butter, nut mixes, and candy bars.
Basically, peanuts are the ultimate nut impostors. They look like nuts, taste like nuts, and get mixed with nuts—so most people just go with it. Even the food industry treats them as nuts, so they end up in snack aisles alongside cashews and pistachios.
But now that you know the truth, you’ve got a fun fact to throw at your friends. The next time someone asks, “Are peanuts peas or nuts?”, you can confidently say: “Neither! Peanuts are legumes—just like peas.
How Do Peanuts Grow? The Secret Underground Life of Peanuts
At this point, we know that peanuts aren’t nuts—they’re legumes, just like peas and beans. But what really sets them apart is how they grow. Unlike true nuts, which develop on trees, peanuts grow underground—almost like a hidden crop waiting to be unearthed.
So, how exactly does a peanut go from a tiny seed to the crunchy snack we love? Let’s dig into the life cycle of a peanut and see why its growth process is so unique.
Planting the Peanut Seed – The Start of Something Unusual
The peanut journey begins when farmers plant peanut seeds, which are actually raw peanuts still encased in their shells. These seeds are placed in warm, sandy soil, usually during the early spring when the temperature is just right. Unlike tree nuts, which need years to grow, peanuts sprout pretty fast—within a few weeks, tiny green plants start pushing through the soil.
At first, a peanut plant looks like any other leafy green plant, but here’s where the real magic happens. Instead of growing fruit or seeds on branches like an almond or walnut tree, the peanut plant does something completely unexpected—it sends shoots called “pegs” back down into the soil!
The Pegging Process – When Peanuts Move Underground
Once the peanut plant flowers, it begins an unusual process called pegging. After the flowers bloom, they wither and bend downward, forming small stems (the pegs). These pegs then push into the soil, where the peanuts will actually develop underground.
Think about how peas grow inside pods. Peanuts do the same thing—but under the soil! Each peanut grows inside its own shell-like pod, completely hidden from sight. Over time, the plant continues producing more pegs, meaning multiple peanuts grow beneath the same plant.
This unique growing method is why peanuts are considered legumes, not nuts. No true nut forms beneath the soil—the fact that peanuts do puts them in the same category as beans, lentils, and peas.
Harvesting Peanuts – Digging for Treasure
After about four to five months, peanuts are finally ready for harvest. Unlike tree nuts, which are picked, peanuts must be dug up from the ground. Farmers use special machines to carefully lift the plants and shake off the excess dirt, revealing clusters of peanut shells attached to the roots.
Once harvested, peanuts are left to dry for several days before they’re processed. This drying process is crucial—it helps enhance the flavor and texture, making them ready for roasting, grinding into peanut butter, or being used in different food products.
Why Peanuts Grow Differently from True Nuts
So, what does all of this mean? Peanuts are not nuts because they don’t grow like nuts.
True nuts (like almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts) grow on trees inside hard shells.
Peanuts grow underground inside pods, just like peas and beans.
heir underground-growing habit is why scientists classify peanuts as legumes rather than tree nuts. But despite their botanical category, peanuts still get treated like nuts in the food world—and most people don’t even realize the difference
Now that you know how peanuts grow, you’ll never look at a bag of roasted peanuts the same way again. The next time you crack open a peanut shell, remember—it’s not a nut, it’s a legume that spent its life hidden underground, just waiting to be discovered!
Nutritional Value of Peanuts – Are They as Healthy as Nuts?
By now, we’ve settled the confusion—peanuts are not actual nuts. They belong to the legume family, just like beans and lentils. But if they’re not nuts, why do they sit on store shelves right next to almonds, walnuts, and cashews? Why are they included in nut mixes and nut butters?
The reason is simple—peanuts look, taste, and feel like nuts. But when it comes to nutrition, do they offer the same health benefits? Or are they just pretending to be something they’re not?
Let’s break it down and see if peanuts deserve their reputation as a nutritious snack or if they fall short compared to real nuts.
Do Peanuts Have the Same Nutritional Value as Nuts?
At first glance, peanuts and tree nuts seem nearly identical. They’re both crunchy, protein-rich, and full of healthy fats. But nutritionally, there are some key differences that set them apart.
One of the biggest advantages peanuts have is their high protein content. A single ounce (about a handful) of peanuts contains around 7 grams of protein—which is more than what you get from most tree nuts like cashews and walnuts. That’s why peanut butter is such a popular choice for people looking to increase their protein intake without relying on meat.
When it comes to fat content, peanuts also deliver. But here’s where things get interesting—80% of the fat in peanuts is unsaturated, meaning it’s the heart-healthy kind. These are the same beneficial fats found in olive oil and avocados, known for lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and supporting heart health.
So, even though peanuts aren’t classified as tree nuts, they still offer many of the same heart-protective benefits. In other words, when it comes to protein and healthy fats, peanuts hold their own against almonds, walnuts, and other tree nuts.
What’s Inside a Peanut? Key Nutrients You Need to Know
Peanuts are more than just protein and fats. They’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Here are some of the key nutrients peanuts provide:
Magnesium – Helps regulate muscle function, nerve signaling, and heart health.
Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) – Supports brain function and boosts metabolism.
Folate – Essential for cell growth and development, particularly important for pregnant women.
Because peanuts contain a wide range of nutrients, they help boost energy levels, improve brain function, and even protect against chronic diseases. That’s why they’re a staple in many diets around the world.
Can Peanuts Help with Weight Management?
Here’s a common misconception—many people think peanuts are fattening because they are high in calories. But the reality is quite different.
Yes, peanuts are calorie-dense, but they also contain the perfect combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full for longer. This means they actually help reduce cravings and prevent overeating, making them a smart choice for weight management.
Studies have even found that people who include peanuts in their diet tend to maintain a healthier weight compared to those who avoid them. Why? Because unlike processed snacks that leave you feeling hungry soon after eating, peanuts satisfy your hunger and keep you energized for hours.
Of course, portion control matters. Eating an entire jar of peanut butter in one sitting won’t help. But when enjoyed in moderation, peanuts can actually support weight loss goals, not hinder them.
Are Peanuts Healthier Than Other Legumes?
Since peanuts belong to the legume family, it’s fair to compare them to their closest relatives—peas, beans, and lentils.
All legumes are great sources of plant-based protein, but peanuts stand out for one big reason—they contain higher amounts of healthy fats.
Peas and beans are lower in calories and fat, which makes them ideal for low-fat diets. But peanuts provide a unique balance of protein, fiber, and monounsaturated fats, making them a better energy source. That’s why peanuts are often recommended for:
✔ Athletes who need extra energy and protein for muscle recovery.
✔ People with active lifestyles who require a balanced mix of nutrients.
✔ Anyone looking for a nutritious, filling snack that keeps hunger in check.
So, while peanuts might share the same botanical family as peas and beans, they have more in common with tree nuts when it comes to nutrition.
Final Verdict – Are Peanuts as Healthy as Nuts?
Absolutely! Even though peanuts are not tree nuts, they still provide many of the same health benefits. They’re high in protein, heart-healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a smart, affordable alternative to expensive tree nuts.
So, whether you enjoy them roasted, as peanut butter, or tossed into a salad, peanuts can be a nutrient-packed addition to your daily routine. They may not technically be nuts, but in terms of health benefits, they’re just as good—if not better!
Health Benefits of Peanuts – More Than Just a Snack
Most people eat peanuts because they taste great. But did you know they also come with some serious health benefits? Peanuts are loaded with nutrients, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, making them one of the best natural snacks you can choose.
Many believe peanuts aren’t as healthy as almonds or walnuts. Some even think they cause weight gain. But what’s the real truth? Let’s dive into the science-backed benefits of peanuts and why they deserve a place in your diet.
1. Can Peanuts Improve Heart Health?
You’ve probably heard that nuts are good for your heart. But what about peanuts? Even though they aren’t technically nuts, they still provide heart-healthy nutrients.
Healthy Fats: Peanuts are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, the same ones found in olive oil. These fats help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), reducing the risk of heart disease
Natural Antioxidants: Peanuts contain resveratrol, the same antioxidant found in red wine, known for protecting blood vessels and improving circulation.
Magnesium Boost: Low magnesium levels have been linked to heart problems. Peanuts provide a good dose of magnesium, supporting normal blood pressure.
Several studies suggest that people who eat peanuts regularly have a lower risk of heart disease. So, if you’re looking for a heart-friendly snack, peanuts are a great choice.
2. Do Peanuts Help with Weight Management?
Peanuts are high in calories, so do Peanuts cause weight gain? Surprisingly, no—as long as you eat them in moderation. In fact, peanuts can help with weight control.
They Keep You Full – Peanuts are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which help curb hunger and prevent overeating. Unlike sugary snacks, they provide steady energy and keep you satisfied longer.
They Support Metabolism – Protein-rich foods boost your metabolism, meaning your body burns more calories during digestion.
They Reduce Cravings – Eating peanuts as a snack can prevent binge-eating later, making it easier to stick to a healthy diet.
One study found that people who included peanuts in their diet had lower body weight compared to those who avoided them. So, if you’re trying to manage your weight, peanuts can be a smart and satisfying choice.
3. Can Peanuts Improve Brain Function?
Ever heard of brain food? Peanuts fit the category. They contain key nutrients that support memory, focus, and long-term brain health.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Helps maintain brain function and reduces age-related cognitive decline.
Vitamin E: Protects brain cells from damage and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Resveratrol: Found in peanuts, this antioxidant is being studied for its potential to slow brain aging.
If you want to keep your mind sharp, adding peanuts to your diet could be a simple but effective step.
4. Do Peanuts Help Prevent Chronic Diseases?
Because peanuts are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, they may also reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes and cancer.
Blood Sugar Control: Peanuts have a low glycemic index, meaning they don’t cause blood sugar spikes. This makes them a great snack for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
Antioxidant Power: The compounds in peanuts help fight inflammation and protect cells from damage, which is linked to lower risks of certain cancers.
While no single food can prevent disease, eating nutrient-dense foods like peanuts may support long-term health and wellness.
Are Peanuts Worth Adding to Your Diet?
Absolutely! Peanuts aren’t just delicious and affordable—they’re also packed with nutrients that support heart health, brain function, and weight control. Whether you enjoy them roasted, in peanut butter, or sprinkled over meals, peanuts are a simple yet powerful addition to a balanced diet.
Next time you’re reaching for a snack, skip the processed junk and grab a handful of peanuts instead—your body will thank you!
Are Peanuts Related to Peas?
At first glance, peanuts and peas couldn’t seem more different. One is crunchy and often roasted, while the other is soft and eaten fresh or cooked. But here’s a surprising fact—peanuts and peas are actually related!
Despite having “nut” in their name, peanuts aren’t nuts at all. They belong to the legume family, just like peas, beans, and lentils. That means, botanically speaking, a peanut has more in common with a pea than with an almond or walnut. But why do they seem so different? Let’s break it down.
Peanuts and Peas: Distant Cousins from the Same Family
Both peanuts and peas are part of the Fabaceae (legume) family, which is known for plants that:
✔ Grow inside pods
✔ Help fertilize soil by fixing nitrogen
✔ Provide excellent plant-based protein
But while they share this connection, their growth patterns and uses are very different.
How Peanuts Grow vs. How Peas Grow
🌱 Peanuts:
Start as a flower above ground
After pollination, the fertilized ovary buries itself in the soil
The peanut matures underground, hidden from sight
🌿 Peas:
Grow above ground on vines or bushes
The pods stay visible and easy to pick
The peas inside mature in hanging pods
This means peanuts are unique among legumes—most legumes, including peas, mature completely above ground.
Another key difference? Peanuts have deep taproots, while peas have shallow roots. This is why peanuts thrive in warm, dry climates, while peas need cooler, moist conditions.
Peanuts vs. Peas: How Do They Compare Nutritionally?
Peanuts and peas may be related, but they offer very different nutrients. Peanuts are high in healthy fats and protein, while peas are low in fat but rich in fiber and vitamins.
| Nutrient | Peanuts (Per 100g) | Peas (Per 100g) |
| Protein | 25g | 5g |
| Healthy Fats | 49g | 0.4g |
| Fiber | 8g | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 14g |
| Iron | 4.6mg | 1.5mg |
| Magnesium | 168mg | 33mg |
Key Takeaways:
🔹 Peanuts are energy-dense, making them great for high-protein snacks.
🔹 Peas are lower in fat, which makes them a lighter, more refreshing food.
🔹 Both are rich in plant-based protein, but peanuts are far more calorie-dense.
So, even though they come from the same plant family, they serve very different roles in nutrition.
Why Do People Think Peanuts Are Nuts?
Even though peanuts are scientifically legumes, most people consider them nuts. But why?
👉 They taste and crunch like nuts – Roasted peanuts have the same texture and rich flavor as tree nuts.
👉 They’re used in the same way – Peanut butter, peanut oil, and peanut snacks are just as common as almond and cashew products.
👉 They’re sold as nuts – Grocery stores place peanuts in the nut section, reinforcing the idea that they belong there.
Over time, this has caused widespread confusion. Even though peanuts are legumes, most people still think of them as nuts simply because of how they’re eaten and marketed.
So, Are Peanuts and Peas the Same?
Not exactly, but they are botanically related. Both belong to the legume family, but their growth patterns, nutritional value, and culinary uses make them completely different foods.
So next time someone asks if peanuts are nuts, you’ll have the answer: They’re not nuts—they’re legumes, just like peas!
Why Do People Call Peanuts “Nuts”?
If you’ve ever sat down with a bowl of peanuts, you probably didn’t stop to wonder whether they were really nuts. They’re crunchy, they taste like nuts, and they’re sold alongside almonds and cashews—so they must be nuts, right?
Not exactly. Peanuts aren’t nuts at all. They actually belong to the legume family, making them distant relatives of beans and lentils. But despite what science says, people have been calling them nuts for centuries. So why does this mix-up exist? The answer lies in a combination of food culture, history, and marketing.
Let’s break it down.
Peanuts vs. Tree Nuts: The Scientific Difference
To understand why peanuts are mislabeled, it helps to look at how true nuts grow. Tree nuts—like almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts—come from trees. They have hard shells that don’t split open on their own. Peanuts, on the other hand, grow underground in pods, just like peas and beans.
Here’s how they compare:
Feature Peanuts Tree Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Cashews)
Growth Underground (Legume) Grows on Trees (Nut)
Pod or Shell Soft outer shell (like peas) Hard shell (like walnuts)
Botanical Family Legume (Fabaceae) Nut (Fagaceae, Juglandaceae, etc.)
Common Use Snack, butter, oil Snack, butter, oil
So, scientifically speaking, peanuts are closer to beans than to almonds. But that still doesn’t explain why we call them nuts in everyday life.
How Peanuts Got Their “Nut” Name
Food names can be incredibly misleading, and peanuts are no exception. The word “peanut” comes from the combination of “pea” (because they’re legumes) and “nut” (because they taste like nuts). Over time, people focused more on the “nut” part and forgot about the “pea” part.
This kind of confusion happens with other foods too:
🔹 Coconuts aren’t nuts—they’re actually classified as fruits.
🔹 Pineapples have nothing to do with apples.
🔹 Sweet potatoes aren’t even related to regular potatoes.
The same thing happened with peanuts. People grouped them with nuts because they taste similar and serve the same purpose in cooking.
How the Food Industry Reinforced the “Nut” Label
Even though science says peanuts aren’t real nuts, the food industry has treated them like nuts for decades. And when something is marketed a certain way, people just go with it.
Think about this:
✔ Where are peanuts sold? In the nut aisle, next to almonds and cashews.
✔ What do we call peanut butter? A nut butter—just like almond butter.
✔ What’s in trail mix? Peanuts, along with tree nuts like walnuts and cashews.
By the time a person learns the truth, they’ve already spent years seeing peanuts in nut mixes, peanut butter jars, and nut snack packs. It’s no wonder most people assume they’re real nuts!
Does It Matter That Peanuts Aren’t Nuts?
In most cases, the answer is no—it’s just a funny naming mistake. But there are a few situations where this mix-up actually matters.
1️⃣ Food Allergies
People with tree nut allergies might assume they need to avoid peanuts too. However, peanut allergies and tree nut allergies aren’t the same because they come from completely different plant families. Some people are allergic to both, but others only react to one or the other.
2️⃣ Diet & Nutrition
Since peanuts contain more protein than most nuts, they’re a great plant-based protein source. But people who believe peanuts are tree nuts might not realize they’re actually closer to beans—which means they can be a good meat alternative.
3️⃣ Cooking & Ingredient Substitutions
Because peanuts are often used like tree nuts, people sometimes swap them in recipes without realizing they have a different texture and fat content. This can change the final dish more than expected.
Final Answer: Why Are Peanuts Called Nuts?
It all comes down to history, marketing, and the way we use food in daily life.
✔ Scientifically, peanuts are legumes. They grow underground, inside pods—just like peas.
✔ Culinarily, peanuts act like nuts. They’re crunchy, fatty, and used in nut-based recipes.
✔ Linguistically, history shaped their name. The word “nut” stuck over time, even though it wasn’t accurate.
So, next time someone asks, “Are peanuts really nuts?”, you can confidently say:
“Nope! They’re legumes, but they taste like nuts, so people just assume they are.”
Conclusion: So, Are Peanuts Really Nuts?
So, after all this back and forth—where do peanuts actually belong? Technically, they’re legumes. But in everyday life? Most people think of them as nuts, and honestly, it’s easy to see why.
Think about it—when you grab a bag of mixed nuts, peanuts are right in there with almonds, cashews, and walnuts. They’re roasted, salted, turned into peanut butter, and even used in desserts like peanut brittle. No one’s tossing them in a soup with lentils or chickpeas. And let’s not forget the name itself—pea-“nut”—which pretty much invites all the confusion.
But here’s the thing: science and everyday language don’t always match up. Botanically, peanuts grow underground and belong to the legume family, just like beans and peas. But culturally, they’ve been treated as nuts for so long that most people don’t even question it.
Does It Even Matter?
For the average person? Probably not. Whether you call them nuts or legumes, you’ll still enjoy a PB&J the same way. But in some situations, it actually makes a difference:
✔ Food Allergies – Some people are allergic to peanuts but not tree nuts (and vice versa). Understanding the difference is crucial for safety.
✔ Nutrition – Peanuts are protein-packed—actually, they contain more protein than most tree nuts. They’re also rich in folate, making them a great brain-boosting food.
✔ Cooking & Baking – Ever tried swapping peanuts for walnuts in a recipe? The texture and oil content are totally different, so it doesn’t always work the same way.
So, What’s the Final Answer?
If we’re sticking to science, peanuts are legumes—plain and simple. But if we’re going by common usage, they’ll always be grouped with nuts, no matter what botany says.
And honestly? That’s fine. Language evolves based on how people use words, not just textbook definitions. If someone insists, “Peanuts are nuts,” you don’t have to argue. Just hit them with a fun fact:
“Not really—but I get why you’d think that!”
At the end of the day, whether they’re nuts or legumes doesn’t change the fact that they’re delicious, nutritious, and one of the most popular snacks in the world.
So, go ahead—enjoy your peanuts, share the knowledge, and impress your friends with this weird but fun food fact!
FAQS
1. Are peanuts peas or nuts?
This is one of those questions that makes you stop and think for a second. Peanuts aren’t actually nuts—they’re legumes. Weird, right? They grow underground, just like beans and peas, while real nuts (like almonds and walnuts) grow on trees.
But here’s the confusing part—peanuts look, taste, and are used just like nuts. When was the last time you saw someone sprinkle peanuts on their salad and think, “Wow, love these legumes”? Probably never. That’s why most people just go with the nut label, even though botanically, peanuts belong to the same plant family as peas.
2. If peanuts are legumes, why do people call them nuts?
It all comes down to how we use them in everyday life. Culinary classifications don’t always match scientific ones. Tomatoes are technically fruits, but we treat them as vegetables. The same thing happens with peanuts.
They’re roasted, salted, turned into peanut butter, and tossed into nut mixes—so naturally, they get grouped with actual nuts like cashews and almonds. Plus, let’s be honest, calling them “legumes” doesn’t sound as appetizing. Imagine a PB&J sandwich being called “legume butter and jelly.” It just wouldn’t catch on!
3. Are peanuts and peas from the same plant family?
Yep! Peanuts and peas both belong to the legume family (Fabaceae), meaning they share some plant characteristics. But they don’t look or taste alike at all.
Peas grow in pods above the ground, while peanuts grow underground. Peas are soft, starchy, and mostly made up of carbohydrates, while peanuts are high in fat and protein, giving them a crunchier texture. So even though they’re technically plant cousins, they’ve got very different personalities.
4. Are peanuts healthier than tree nuts?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. Peanuts have more protein than most tree nuts, which is great if you’re trying to build muscle or stay full longer. They’re also loaded with folate, magnesium, and antioxidants, making them a solid choice for overall health.
On the flip side, tree nuts like almonds and walnuts have more omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health. Some nuts also contain unique compounds that peanuts don’t have. So, it’s not really about one being better than the other—it just depends on what benefits you’re after.
5. Can someone allergic to nuts eat peanuts?
This is a tricky one. Peanut allergies and tree nut allergies aren’t the same thing. Some people who are allergic to tree nuts can still eat peanuts without a problem, while others react to both. It really varies from person to person.
The safest approach? Always check with a doctor before trying peanuts if you have a nut allergy. Allergies can be unpredictable, and it’s not worth taking a risk without medical advice.