Peanuts are a legume, not a nut

Did you know?

• The average American consumes more than six pounds of peanuts and peanut butter products each year. 
• The average child will eat 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before he/she graduates high school.

Or that:

• Peanuts have more protein, niacin, folate and phytosterols than any nut.
• Peanuts have a higher antioxidant capacity over grapes, Concord grape juice, green tea, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, carrots and many more.
• Peanuts and peanut butter contain over 30 essential nutrients and phytonutrients.

Or that:

• The peanut is not a nut, but a legume related to beans and lentils.

A legume is defined as a pod, such as that of a pea or bean, that splits into two valves with the seeds attached to one edge of the valves.  Beans, lentils, peanuts, peas, and soybeans are some of the common legumes consumed by humans.

Peanuts and peanut butter act as great snacks because they contain protein, which keeps you full longer.  They can be eaten plain or add peanut butter as a dip for your fruits and vegetables, or as a spread for your wheat bread or crackers.  However, watch those serving sizes.  Calories from peanuts and peanut butter add up fast.


References:
http://www.nationalpeanutboard.org/classroom-funfacts.php