Calories in Peanuts: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Peanuts are a calorie-dense legume (botanically not a tree nut) that provides an exceptional combination of protein, healthy fats, and essential micronutrients. One ounce of dry-roasted peanuts delivers roughly 7 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, and is a notable source of niacin, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin E. Their satisfying crunch and rich flavor make them one of the most consumed "nuts" in the world.

Calories by serving size:

Peanuts are particularly rich in monounsaturated fat (oleic acid), the same heart-healthy fat found in olive oil, which makes up about half of their total fat content. They also contain resveratrol and other polyphenols with antioxidant properties, and their niacin content is among the highest of any common food, with one ounce providing roughly 20% of the daily value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are peanuts a legume or a nut?

Peanuts are botanically a legume, belonging to the Fabaceae family alongside beans, lentils, and chickpeas. Unlike tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews) that grow on trees, peanuts develop underground in pods after the plant's flowers are pollinated and bend toward the soil. Despite being legumes, peanuts are nutritionally more similar to tree nuts due to their high fat content, which is why they are commonly grouped with nuts in dietary guidelines.

How do peanuts compare to almonds nutritionally?

Peanuts and almonds have similar calorie counts per ounce (166 vs 164 kcal), but they differ in their nutrient profiles. Peanuts are higher in protein (6.7 g vs 6.0 g per ounce) and niacin, while almonds provide more fiber (3.5 g vs 2.3 g), vitamin E, calcium, and magnesium. Both are excellent sources of monounsaturated fat and can be part of a healthy diet, with the choice often coming down to personal preference and cost, as peanuts are typically much more affordable.

How much protein is in an ounce of peanuts?

One ounce (about 28 grams, or roughly 28 individual peanuts) provides approximately 6.7 grams of protein. This makes peanuts one of the most protein-dense snack options available, with a higher protein-to-calorie ratio than many other nuts and seeds. A quarter-cup serving bumps the protein up to about 8.6 grams, making it easy to add significant protein to meals or snacks.

Are peanuts good for weight loss?

Despite being calorie-dense, research consistently shows that regular peanut consumption is associated with lower body weight and reduced risk of obesity. Their combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fat promotes strong satiety, meaning people tend to eat less at subsequent meals after consuming peanuts. The key is portion control — sticking to a one-ounce serving (about a small handful) provides the satiety benefits without excessive calorie intake.

Is there a nutritional difference between raw and roasted peanuts?

Raw and dry-roasted peanuts have very similar macronutrient profiles, with dry roasting causing only minimal changes in calorie, protein, and fat content. The roasting process does slightly reduce some heat-sensitive nutrients like thiamine and certain antioxidants, but it also increases the bioavailability of niacin and enhances the concentration of some beneficial compounds like p-coumaric acid. Oil-roasted peanuts, however, absorb additional fat during cooking, adding about 10 to 15 extra calories per ounce compared to dry-roasted varieties.