Peanuts – YSA Ingredients

The peanut is not a true nut, but rather a legume. It is one of the most important sources of protein worldwide and accounts for two-thirds of all snack nuts consumed in the United States. Peanuts start growing as a flower; however because of their heavy weight after pollination, they bend toward the soil and eventually go underground where the peanut matures.

Common Sizes

Inshell Virginia Peanuts- Super Jumbo, Jumbo, and Fancy

Shelled Runner Peanuts- Jumbo, Medium, No. 1, No. 2, Splits

Shelled Virginia- XL, Medium

Shelled Spanish- Jumbo, #1, Spanish Splits

Common Varieties

Although peanuts come in many varieties, there are four main types with specific size, taste and nutrient make-up; they include Runners, Virginia, Spanish and Valencia. Runners are the most popular due to their high yields and availability. Virginias have the largest kernels and are most commonly used for eating in the shell. Spanish-type peanuts have smaller kernels and higher oil content than other types of peanuts and are covered with a reddish-brown skin. Valencias are a very sweet “nut” with three or more small kernels to a pod and are covered in a bright-red skin.

Origins/ Growing Areas

China (~40%), India (~17%), U.S. (~6%), Argentina (~3%)