Peanut oil

Peanut oil, also known as groundnut oil or arachis oil, is a type of vegetable oil derived from peanuts. It is commonly used in cooking, particularly for frying, due to its high smoke point and slightly nutty flavor.

Production

Peanut oil is extracted from peanuts through a process known as oil pressing. The peanuts are first cleaned, shelled, and graded before being heated and pressed to extract the oil. The oil is then refined, bleached, and deodorized to produce a product suitable for consumption.

Nutritional Value

Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated fat, which is considered a healthy fat. It also contains vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health. However, like all oils, it is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.

Uses

In addition to its use in cooking, peanut oil is also used in the production of soap, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used as a lubricant in some machinery.

Allergies

People with a peanut allergy should avoid peanut oil, as it can cause a severe allergic reaction. However, highly refined peanut oil is often safe for people with peanut allergies, as the allergenic proteins are usually removed during the refining process.

See Also

• Vegetable oil
• Oil pressing
• Peanut allergy