Ingredient · Updated

Peanut Oil

Flagged in 9

Found in 9 productsSee all

What is Peanut Oil?

Peanut oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the peanut plant. The extraction can be done through pressing, or using solvents, followed by refining processes such as bleaching and deodorizing.

Peanut oil is commonly used for frying and cooking due to its high smoke point and mild flavor. Health evidence is mixed; while it is low in saturated fats, it contains omega-6 fatty acids, which some believe could contribute to inflammation if consumed in excess.

It's important to check for potential allergens when peanut oil is listed, as it may cause allergic reactions in individuals with peanut allergies.

Commonly found in: Cooking oils, Salad dressings, Fried snacks, Marinades, Sauces

What to watch

  • Contains omega-6 fatty acids, which some research suggests may promote inflammation if not balanced with omega-3 intake.
  • May trigger allergic reactions in individuals with peanut allergies.

Benefits

  • Low in saturated fats compared to some other oils.
FDA

Peanut oil is considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.

Research

Research shows peanut oil is low in saturated fat but may contribute to imbalanced omega fatty acid intake.

Vegan

As a plant-derived oil, peanut oil is suitable for vegan diets.

Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS) · The balanced approach to fats

Scout's take

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

The case against

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Creamy Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookie · echoed in 1 other analysis

Industrially refined with chemical solvents. High omega-6 content promotes chronic inflammation. Stripped of beneficial compounds found in whole peanuts.

from the analysis of Pure Protein Protein Bars

May contribute to inflammation due to its omega-6 content.

from the analysis of Great Value Deluxe Mixed Nuts

Potential allergen for individuals with peanut allergies.

from the analysis of Peak Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch

Potential allergen for some individuals.

from the analysis of Catalina Crunch Peanut Butter Granola

The case for

Contains monounsaturated fats that can support heart health when consumed in moderation.

from the analysis of Great Value Deluxe Mixed Nuts

Provides a source of healthy fats and is suitable for high-temperature cooking.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Creamy Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookie

Provides a source of energy and can enhance flavor in cooking.

from the analysis of PLANTERS, NUTS & CHOCOLATE TRAIL MIX

Provides a stable cooking oil option with a high smoke point.

from the analysis of Catalina Crunch Peanut Butter Granola

Rich in monounsaturated fats, supporting heart health.

from the analysis of Peak Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch

More from Scout's analyses

Peanut oil is a refined oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess. It is often used for frying due to its high smoke point, but the refining process can strip away beneficial nutrients. Compared to other oils, it lacks the health benefits of oils like olive or avocado oil.

from the analysis of Kirkland Unsalted Mixed Nuts

Peanut oil is a refined oil that is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess. It is often extracted using heat and chemicals, which can degrade its nutritional quality. Compared to other oils, it lacks significant health benefits.

from the analysis of KIRKLAND Signature Nuts plastic pouch

Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated fats but also contains omega-6 fatty acids, which can be inflammatory. It is often refined, which can strip away beneficial nutrients. While it has a high smoke point, healthier alternatives like avocado oil are available.

from the analysis of Great Value Deluxe Mixed Nuts

All 9 products with Peanut Oil

Where Peanut Oil shows up

Higher-scoring picks without Peanut Oil

Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Peanut Oil, scoring 80 or above.

Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.