We have all learned, at one point or another, all about the wonderful accomplishments of the American agricultural chemist, botanist and inventor Dr. George Washington Carver. His extraordinarily successful research in the early 1900’s was unprecedented and defined many uses for peanuts. Of particular note was his research into the nutritional value of peanuts.
Even today, the legacy of Dr. George Washington Carver endures as we still have many wonderful uses for the noble, yet humble, peanut. Here are some facts–all about peanuts–that might be of great interest and benefit to you and your family.
Peanut Calories are Not to Be Feared
Forget what you have heard about peanut calories.There is no reason to fear peanut calories! On the contrary, peanuts are a high protein snack. Since the amount of protein in an ounce of peanuts (about a handful) totals 7 grams, per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, they are an outstanding source of protein.
Peanut Allergies are Not to Be Feared
We hear a lot about peanut allergies, especially in food. There are actually four different kinds of peanuts–Valencias, Spanish, Runners and Virginia. These types of peanuts are used around the world. Yet, there is a very comforting fact to keep in mind: a significant percentage of U.S. children (over 98%) can enjoy peanut-containing foods and peanuts safely, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Peanut Butter is Not to Be Feared
What about the nutritional value of peanut butter, you may ask; well, one 12-ounce jar of peanut butter contains about 540 peanuts, according to the National Peanut Board. And to be labeled ‘peanut butter’ the FDA requires that the peanut butter is made up of at least 90% peanuts. Just one more of the interesting facts about peanut butter.
Not only did Dr. Carver’s scientific research bring to light new uses for peanuts, and lead to the development of many peanut products, but he also helped the Southern farmer very much. And he helped the American palate: things were never the same after the World’s Fair in 1904, in St. Louis, when the United States first was exposed to the irresistible taste of peanut butter. Ever since then, Americans have had a love affair with it. Just showing that the humble, noble peanut has so much to offer–and it’s great to learn all about peanuts.
