It is widely grown in the tropics and subtropics by small and large commercial producers, both as grain legume and as an oil crop. Atypically among legumes, peanut pods develop underground leading botanist Carl Linnaeus to name peanuts hypogaea, which means "under the earth".
Why is peanut oil used in cooking?
Peanut oil is often used in cooking because it has a mild flavor and a relatively high smoke point. Due to its high monounsaturated content, it is considered more healthful than saturated oils and is resistant to rancidity.
When was peanut butter invented?
Peanut butter was developed in the 1890s in the United States. It became well known after the Beech-Nut company began selling peanut butter at the St. Louis World’s Fair of 1904. The peanut is an annual herbaceous plant growing 30 to 50 cm (12 to 20 in) tall.
What are the different types of peanut oil?
The several types of peanut oil include aromatic roasted peanut oil, refined peanut oil, extra virgin or cold-pressed peanut oil, and peanut extract. Refined peanut oil is exempt from allergen labeling laws in the United States. Peanut butter is a food paste or spread made from ground dry roasted peanuts.