Peanuts: A Sustainable Legume

February 2022

America’s most popular nut improves water usage to 3.2 gallons per ounce. According to recent data, the peanut has improved water efficiency by nearly one-third.

Competing nuts’ water consumption is much higher.  Almonds use 28.7 gallons; pistachios use 23.6 gallons; and walnuts use 26.7 gallons of water to grow a one-ounce serving.

According to the National Peanut Board, peanut farmers are producing about 50% more peanuts with fewer inputs than they were a decade ago.

In addition to being America’s most environmental-friendly nut, the peanut is also the most consumed nut. For two years in a row, the per capital peanut consumption has risen to an all-time high of 7.9 pounds in 2021.

For more information, visit the National Peanut Board press release.