06 Nov Peanut and Its History
Peanut and Its History
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is a valuable plant which is a member of the legume family, contains 45-60% oil, 20-30% protein, 18% carbohydrate, vitamins and mineral substances in its seeds, and its stalk is used as dry grass and its bark is utilized in various ways, especially in oil industry and making appetizer. Its homeland is the tropical regions of South America. Contrary to other plants in the legume family, peanut forms its fruits under the ground.
The biggest peanut producer in the world is China. India, Nigeria, and the USA are also important peanut producers.
In Turkey, the most peanut cultivation is done in the Mediterranean region, especially in Osmaniye province. About 40% of our total peanut production is met by Osmaniye. In addition, significant amounts of peanuts are produced in Adana, Kahramanmaraş, and Aydın provinces. Peanuts are consumed as peanut butter, especially in the United States. The fact that the American society has been enlightened about the nutritional value of peanuts and that there are some conveniences of peanut consumption made it a must to establish large facilities that turn 8-10 tons of peanut into paste per hour and work full-time.
Some of the characteristics which will make peanut butter the desired food item in society are that it can be consumed alone thanks to its good taste and also by adding it in other foodstuffs, that it is ready for consumption, and that it is resistant to microbiological spoilage and easy to store.
Benefits of Peanut
• ● Containing lots of vitamin E, peanut adds shine to your skin, prevents hair dryness, and strengthens your nails.
● It strengthens the memory and prevents embolism thanks to the content of omega-3 acids.
● Its glycemic index is 14. This extremely low glycemic rate helps peanut reduce the risk of diabetes by reducing the dissolution of sugar in the bloodstream.
● The tryptophan in its content gives you happiness as it increases your serotonin level. It has also been proven that it increases sexual power.
● Thanks to the balanced oils in it, peanut reduces the risk of getting colon cancer and having bad cholesterol levels.
● Unsaturated fats strengthen your heart health.
● Peanut, which is consumed regularly and proportionately by avoiding too much consumption, also helps you lose weight as it provides long-term fullness.