Calories in Peanut Oil: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes

Peanut oil, also known as groundnut oil, is a popular cooking fat with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. A single tablespoon provides about 119 calories and offers a well-balanced fat profile, with roughly equal proportions of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Its high smoke point and clean taste make it one of the most commonly used oils for deep frying.

Calories by serving size:

Peanut oil also contains vitamin E, providing about 2.1 milligrams per tablespoon. It contains no cholesterol, carbohydrates, or protein in its refined form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a tablespoon of peanut oil?

One tablespoon of peanut oil (about 13.5 grams) contains approximately 119 calories. All of those calories come from fat, with a favorable mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Is peanut oil good for deep frying?

Peanut oil is one of the most popular oils for deep frying thanks to its high smoke point of about 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius) and its neutral, slightly nutty taste. It also has good oxidative stability for a frying oil, and it does not absorb or transfer flavors between batches, making it ideal for commercial and home deep frying.

Can people with peanut allergies use peanut oil?

Highly refined peanut oil has had its peanut proteins removed during processing and is generally considered safe for most people with peanut allergies, according to the FDA. However, cold-pressed, expelled, or unrefined peanut oil may still contain allergenic proteins and should be avoided by anyone with a peanut allergy. Individuals should consult their allergist before consuming any peanut oil product.

What is the difference between refined and unrefined peanut oil?

Refined peanut oil has a neutral flavor, higher smoke point, and longer shelf life because the refining process removes impurities and allergens. Unrefined (cold-pressed) peanut oil retains more of the natural peanut flavor, aroma, and nutrients but has a lower smoke point and shorter shelf life. Unrefined peanut oil is better suited for low-heat cooking or as a finishing oil.

How does peanut oil compare to other frying oils?

Peanut oil offers one of the highest smoke points among common cooking oils and strikes a good balance between monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Compared to vegetable or soybean oil, peanut oil has more monounsaturated fat and tends to produce crispier results. It is more expensive than canola or soybean oil but is prized for its superior frying performance and clean flavor.