Maapähklitele

Maapähklitele, commonly known as peanuts, are legumes belonging to the family Fabaceae. Despite their name and common culinary use, they are not true nuts but rather grow underground. Native to South America, peanuts are now cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. The peanut plant produces yellow flowers that, after pollination, develop into a stalk that grows downwards, burying the developing pods beneath the soil where they mature.

Peanuts are a significant source of protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals, including niacin, folate, and vitamin E. They are also rich in antioxidants. Their nutritional profile makes them a valuable food source, contributing to a healthy diet. Peanuts are consumed in numerous forms, including roasted, salted, as peanut butter, and as an ingredient in many dishes and confectionery. Peanut oil is also widely used for cooking and in industrial applications.

However, peanuts are also one of the most common food allergens, and for some individuals, even a small amount can trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. The cultivation of peanuts is economically important in many countries, with significant production in China, India, and the United States. Their versatility and nutritional benefits have cemented their place as a popular and important agricultural commodity.