And Peanut

Peanuts are a type of legume, not a true nut, that grows underground. They are harvested from the plant, shelled, and can be consumed raw, roasted, or processed into various forms like peanut butter or oil.

Manufacturers add peanuts to foods for their distinctive flavor, crunchy or creamy texture, and nutritional value, particularly their protein content. They are widely used in snack foods, granola bars, candies, baked goods, and as an ingredient in nut and seed butters.

Peanuts are a commonly consumed food and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as food. They are a good source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The primary health concern related to peanuts is their potential to cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA primarily evaluate food additives and contaminants, and typically do not set specific limits or evaluations for whole foods like peanuts as general dietary components.