Diet Ratings
Peanut oil contains zero carbs and is 100% fat. However, it is high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats and peanuts are technically legumes. Some keto practitioners prefer avoiding it; others accept it as a cooking oil.
iMainstream keto accepts peanut oil as a neutral cooking oil with acceptable omega-6 levels for occasional use, focusing on its zero-carb status.
Pure plant oil from peanuts (legume). Fully vegan-compliant. Processed but from whole plant source with no animal derivatives.
Peanuts are legumes, not nuts. Peanut oil is derived from a prohibited food source. Additionally, it's a modern processed seed oil with high omega-6 content and inflammatory properties.
Peanut oil has a reasonable monounsaturated fat profile and high smoke point. However, it is not traditional to Mediterranean cuisine and peanuts are legumes rather than tree nuts typically emphasized in the diet.
iSome Mediterranean diet practitioners accept peanut oil as an acceptable cooking oil alternative, particularly in regions with Asian culinary influences or where it is locally available.
Plant-derived oil from legume (peanut). Completely incompatible with carnivore diet on both plant and legume grounds.
Peanuts are legumes and explicitly excluded from Whole30. Peanut oil derived from legumes is prohibited.
Pure oil extracted from peanuts. While peanuts themselves contain some FODMAPs, refined peanut oil is pure fat with negligible carbohydrates. Monash University confirms low-FODMAP status.
Primarily monounsaturated fat (46%) with moderate polyunsaturated fat (32%). Low saturated fat (17%). Minimal sodium. Aligns with DASH fat recommendations when used in moderation.
High in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats, which promote inflammation when excessive. While monounsaturated content is moderate, Sears recommends limiting omega-6 sources. Usable but inferior to olive oil or macadamia oil. Better than seed oils but not ideal for Zone's anti-inflammatory focus.
High omega-6 to omega-3 ratio (approximately 32:1) promotes inflammatory cascade. However, contains resveratrol and some polyphenols. Refined versions lose antioxidants.
iSome authorities argue the omega-6 concern is overstated if total omega-6 intake is balanced; others emphasize peanut oil's pro-inflammatory ratio relative to anti-inflammatory oils.
Pure fat (14g per tbsp), zero protein, zero fiber. While peanut oil has a higher smoke point for cooking, it's still calorie-dense and can trigger nausea/bloating. Use minimal amounts for cooking; olive oil or avocado oil preferred.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–9/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.