peanut

The peanut, also known as groundnut or goober, is Arachis hypogaea, a legume in the family Fabaceae. It is not a true botanical nut; its seeds develop underground after flowering. The plant has yellow flowers; a pod forms underground on the peg.

It is an herbaceous annual. Market classes include Runner, Virginia, Spanish, Valencia; grown in warm tropical and subtropical regions. After maturity, pods are harvested, cured, and seeds are dried for storage and processing.

Peanut kernels are high in oil—roughly 45–50%—and protein—roughly 25–30%—with carbohydrates and micronutrients. They are processed into roasted peanuts, peanut butter, confectionery ingredients, and peanut oil; peanut meal is used as animal feed.

Peanuts originated in South America and were domesticated there before spreading globally during the Columbian Exchange. Today, major producers include China, India, the United States, Nigeria, and Argentina, with cultivation also in many other countries. The crop supports food and industrial uses and is often rotated with other crops.

Peanuts are a common food allergen; reactions can be severe. Proper labeling and allergen controls are important in production and handling. For storage, keep peanuts in a cool, dry place; refrigeration can extend shelf life, but exposure to heat and light can lead to rancidity of the oil-rich seeds.