Ingredient Information

Function

Peanut butter is a paste made from peanuts that is commonly eaten in as a spread for sandwiches. It is also popularly combined with chocolates. Peanut butter is a common ingredient in desserts. It can be used in gravies and meat dishes as well.

100g of peanut butter contains 564 calories, 48.3g of fat, 15mg of sodium, 24g of protein, 9g of sugar and 5.7g of dietary fiber.

Other Use and Industries

Peanut butter is used to flavor cosmetics.

Health Effects

Peanut butter is a good source of vitamins B3 and E. It also provides magnesium and large amounts of antioxidants. Natural peanut butter lowers blood pressure. Peanut butter cannot be consumed by those who are allergic to peanuts. Some peanut butter contains hydrogenated fat, which is known to cause heart disease. Excessive consumption can lead to weight gain. If peanut butter is not stored well it can host Aspergillus flavus, a mold that is highly cancerous and toxic to humans.

Origins

Peanut butter was first made in Quebec in 1884. It was popular as a nutrient substitute for the elderly. Gorge Washington Carver is credited with inventing peanut butter. The first peanut butter machine was patented in 1903. Peanut butter is made by roasting peanuts and then grinding them to a paste.