Legumes & beans

Peanuts, all types, raw

FDC 172430oz (28 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 61 · -2 vs Legumes & beans median

Botanically a legume rather than a nut, raw peanuts score 61 of 100 and sit mid-pack at 32nd of 60 in legumes and beans. Their standout is vitamin E at 56% of the Daily Value per 100 grams, backed by 52% for protein, 40% for magnesium and 30% for fiber, which is why they carry more nutritional weight than their snack reputation suggests.

The score is held back by the calories: at 567 per 100 grams they are energy-dense, so a handful rather than a bowlful is the sensible portion. They work blended into peanut butter or roasted for depth of flavor, and they pair naturally with something acidic in dressings and satay-style sauces. If you want more nutrients per calorie in the same category, lentils and beans rank higher.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around peanuts, all types, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 25.8 g · 17%Carb 16.1 g · 11%Fat 49.2 g · 73%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories567 kcal28%
Total fat49 g63%
Saturated fat6.3 g31%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium18 mg1%
Carbohydrate16 g6%
Dietary fiber8.5 g30%
Sugars4.7 g
Protein26 g52%
Potassium705 mg15%
Calcium92 mg7%
Iron4.6 mg25%
Magnesium168 mg40%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E8.3 mg56%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 172430

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Vitamin E56% DV
Protein52% DV
Magnesium40% DV
Dietary fiber30% DV
Iron25% DV
Potassium15% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the legumes & beans median

Nutrient density61 vs 63 median
Protein / 100 g26 vs 21 median
Fiber / 100 g8.5 vs 5.4 median
Sodium / 100 g18 vs 203 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Tempeh, cookedDensity 63 vs 61Tofu yogurtDensity 63 vs 61Veggie burgers or soyburgers, unpreparedDensity 64 vs 61

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Raw peanuts are typically boiled in salted water as a snack, roasted before eating, ground into peanut butter, or chopped over noodle dishes and salads. Whole kernels also turn up in Thai-style stir-fries and Southern American boiled peanuts, and unroasted kernels have a milder, starchier flavor than the roasted version most people know from the jar.

Store raw peanuts in a cool, dry place, or in the refrigerator or freezer, to slow the oils from turning rancid, especially if keeping them for the long term. An ounce (28 g) portion is calorie-dense at 567 calories per 100 g, but that same 100 g provides 8.5 g of fiber (30% of the Daily Value), 25.8 g of protein, and vitamin E at 56%, so a small handful works well scattered over oatmeal, stir-fries, or salads rather than eaten by the cupful.

Frequently asked questions about peanuts, all types

How many calories are in raw peanuts?

Raw peanuts have 567 calories per 100 g, so they're calorie-dense and best eaten in small portions.

Are peanuts a good source of vitamin E?

Yes, raw peanuts are especially high in vitamin E at 56% of the Daily Value per 100 g.

How should raw peanuts be stored?

Keep them in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator/freezer to slow the oils from turning rancid.

View the USDA source record