Ingredient
Peanut Flour
What is Peanut Flour?
Peanut flour is made by grinding roasted peanuts and removing most of their oil content. This process yields a powder that is high in protein and low in fat compared to whole peanuts.
Peanut flour is primarily used as a protein-boosting ingredient in food products like protein bars and shakes, as well as in baked goods for adding flavor and nutritional value. The health impact of peanut flour largely depends on its protein content and the absence of significant allergens beyond those inherent to peanuts themselves.
When seen on a label, peanut flour generally suggests a plant-based protein source that also adds a mild peanut flavor to the product.
Commonly found in: Protein bars, Protein shakes, Baked goods, Smoothie powders, Gluten-free recipes
What to watch
- Contains peanut allergens which can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Highly processed, which may affect its nutritional profile compared to whole peanuts.
Benefits
- Rich in protein, making it a useful ingredient for high-protein diets.
- Low in fat compared to whole peanuts, suitable for low-fat diet applications.
Peanut flour is considered safe by the FDA but must be labeled clearly due to its allergen content.
Research supports its use as a protein supplement, though its allergenic potential remains a concern for sensitive individuals.
Peanut flour is plant-based and widely accepted in vegan diets.
Sources: GRAS Notice for Peanut Flour
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
Potential allergen for individuals with peanut allergies.
from the analysis of Peak Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter CrunchCommon allergen.
from the analysis of Primal Power Ancestral Fuel BarThe case for
Enhances protein content and provides a nutty flavor.
from the analysis of Peak Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter CrunchProvides additional protein and peanut flavor.
from the analysis of Primal Power Ancestral Fuel BarMore from Scout's analyses
Peanut flour is made from roasted peanuts with most of the oil removed. It is used to add flavor and protein to foods. It is a good source of protein but can be allergenic.
from the analysis of Bee Keeper's Naturals Bee Propolis Throat SprayGround peanuts providing protein and flavor. More processed than whole peanuts but still a recognizable single-ingredient food.
from the analysis of Primal Power Ancestral Fuel BarProvides natural flavor and additional fiber. A processed derivative of peanuts used for flavoring.
from the analysis of FlavCity Protein SmoothieFound in 10 products
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