Epic source
Energy
630 kcal · 31% DV target
A dense, oil-rich spread with a savory-sweet profile, peanut butter serves as a versatile culinary staple that provides a concentrated source of plant-based proteins and heart-healthy fats.
Peanut butter consumption is consistently linked to improved cardiovascular health markers, specifically by lowering triglycerides and improving the ratio of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) to HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol .15
Peanut butter contains phytosterols (plant-derived compounds similar to cholesterol), such as beta-sitosterol, which help block the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the digestive tract .2
Regular intake of peanuts and peanut butter is associated with a lower risk of incident frailty and may support better physical and cognitive function in older adults .311
Early research suggests that while peanut butter is satiating, adding it to a meal may increase overall food intake compared to eating nuts alone, which appears to trigger stronger energy compensation (the body's natural adjustment of calorie intake) .4
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
630 kcal · 31% DV target
23.5 g · 47% DV target
52.1 g · 67% DV target
12.5 g · 5% DV target
6.65 g · 24% DV target
7.50 g · 15% DV target
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Natural varieties may require stirring as oil separates.
Extends freshness and prevents oil separation in natural versions.
Peanuts are nitrogen-fixing crops that require significantly less water than tree nuts like almonds.
The first patent for a peanut paste was awarded in 1884 to Marcellus Edson, who intended it as a nutritious food for people who could not chew solid food.