Are peanuts as heart-healthy as tree nuts?

In large observational cohorts, regular unsalted-peanut intake is associated with lower cardiovascular mortality on the same order as walnut and almond. The catch is the form — salted-fried and sugar-added varieties do not carry the signal.

Is peanut butter healthy?

Yes, when the label reads 'peanuts' (and maybe salt). Sugar, palm oil, and hydrogenated fat turn peanut butter into a sweet — read the ingredient list, not the front of the jar.

What should I know about aflatoxin?

Aflatoxin is a mould toxin that can concentrate in poorly stored peanut lots. Reputable brands routinely test; discard any peanut or peanut butter that tastes bitter or smells musty.

Can I introduce peanut to my baby?

Current allergy guidance from the NIAID (2017 LEAP-based) recommends early introduction of peanut-containing foods (from around 4–6 months, in age-appropriate texture) in most babies, with allergist evaluation first for high-risk infants with severe eczema or egg allergy. This is a change from older 'avoid until age 3' advice.

Chapter 1 of 19

Peanut

If You Read Nothing Else

Botanically a legume, nutritionally comparable to a tree nut — the highest-protein 'nut' in the ājīl mix (~7 g per oz).

One of the top eight paediatric food allergens. Strict avoidance in known allergy and cautious introduction in at-risk households.

Regular unsalted-peanut consumption is associated with lower heart and blood vessel mortality in large cohorts, comparable to tree nuts.

Choose reputable brands to minimise aflatoxin — a mould toxin that concentrates in poorly stored peanut lots.