Groundnuts are a legume, better known as peanuts. As with some other plants, a cholesterol-free oil can be made from groundnuts. The oil is extremely healthy as it is rich in unsaturated fats (the healthy type) and natural antioxidants. It is primarily used in cooking and it is especially good for making popcorn.
It is a safe oil for cooking and long storage. A study published in 2018 in the journal Molecules compared the oxidative stability of different refined oils. Peanut oil, along with corn oil, was found to be the most stable even in the 12th month of its storage. [1]
We’ve selected 10 groundnut oils that we believe are the best in the market at the moment and we’ve reviewed them for you. This way you don’t have to go through the trouble of finding the best groundnut oil for your needs:
Perfecto Peanut Oil
- 100% pure
- Popping Oil
- Perfect for popcorn
This pure peanut popping oil is perfect for making butter-colored popcorn. The flavor is mildly nutty. Beta-carotene is added for color, which makes it unsuitable for certain stir-fry dishes. It has no trans fats. In fact, WHO guidelines recommend the use of peanut oil to cut down on trans fat consumption. [2]
Groundnut oil Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Spectrum Peanut Oil
- Unrefined
- Non-GMO
- Kosher certified
Spectrum has several different kinds of peanut oils, but we decided to single out the unrefined one. The item is non-GMO and kosher certified by the OU. It has a rich nutty flavor, which makes it perfect for stir-fry dishes and sautéed food. It is suitable for high-heat cooking and it is high oleic peanut oil, which means it is an extremely healthy option.
A study published in the journal Nutrients found that the consumption of high oleic peanuts had minimal impact on weight gain while improving cardio-metabolic rates. [3]
Loriva Peanut Oil
- Roasted peanut
- Distinctive aroma
- Best for cooking Asian foods
The roasted peanut oil has that distinctive flavor and aroma you will love (or learn to love. This item manufactured by Loriva is great for frying and high heat cooking, but the ones who have already tried it especially recommend it for Asian foods, such as pan-fried noodles.
Planter Peanut Oil
- 100% Pure
- Excellent for salads
Planters is a factory that’s been in business for over a century and they are a renowned brand. Their 100% pure peanut is great for high-heat grilling and frying. It also comes in convenient bottles, which makes it convenient to use. The oil itself is light and clear. It is not super strong, which also makes it excellent for salads.
Snappy Popcorn Peanut Oil
- No artificial colors
- Excellent for multiple purposes
- No trans fats
Snappy Popcorn’s product is the best seller in the category of peanut oils. The item is the most popular with the customer for a reason – it is perfect for frying and ideal for popcorn. The oil contains no trans fats or artificial colors. It is refined and has a high smoke temperature.
PB 2 Roasted Peanut Oil
- Extra virgin
- Unfiltered
- No artificial ingredients
PB2 is the manufacturer of a premium quality culinary oil with no trans fats or cholesterol. The oil is made from cold-pressed slow-roasted peanuts, which enabled it to keep both the flavor and nutritional value. It is a great source of vitamin E and contains no artificial ingredients, meaning that it is perfectly healthy. As a refined oil, it has a bit lower smoke temperature (about 390°) than its refined counterparts.
Mother Organic Groundnut Oil
- Chemical free
- No artificial ingredients
- USDA Certified
Mother Organic’s products are made in the United States and they are all USDA certified, which means they have been tested and approved for use. The oil is completely natural and it contains no artificial ingredients, such as fertilizers, pesticides or other additives.
Organic Sunrise Groundnut Oil
- 100% pure
- No artificial ingredients
- USDA certified
Another product that has a USDA certification, which means that it meets the international standards for production and packaging. This healthy oil contains no artificial ingredients or chemicals, which is a guarantee that it will have nutty taste and aroma. If you are looking for healthy cooking oil, you can’t go wrong with choosing Organic Sunrise’s product.
La Tourangelle Roasted Peanut Oil
- Made in the USA
- Unrefined
La Tourangelle is a famous brand for decades now and their peanut oil is another reliable product you can count on for your kitchen needs. You can use it for high-heat cooking and frying, and it is perfect for cooking Thai and Asian dishes, such as noodles. It’s free from cholesterol and other artificial ingredients.
Peanut Carrier Oil
- 100% pure
- Australian oil
- Skincare product
The oil originates from Australia and the cold-pressed method was used to extract it from peanuts. Unlike other oils on the list, Peanut Carrier oil is used in cosmetics. You can use it a skincare product to moisturize your skin or carrier oil to mix it in your own lotions or creams. It has a sweet nutty scent.
Groundnut Oil – Select, Buy, and Store
As with most other oils, there are two types of groundnut oil:
- Unrefined oil – it has higher nutritional value, but it doesn’t last as long
- Refined oil – it lasts longer and it is perfect for high-heat cooking. It is also a healthy option, it just lost some of its nutritive ingredients during the manufacturing process
Regardless of which of the two types you choose, you want to get your oil from a reputable and recognizable brand. As you can see, we only listed the renowned companies in our groundnut oil reviews section. Avoid going to the local markets or stores and buying an oil you are not sure about. When purchasing from reliable manufacturers, you are certain that you get what you buy. If you want additional safety, look for certifications which indicate the product complies with certain standards and regulations.
In terms of cooking temperature, the University of Rochester Medical Center advises that it is the most suitable oil for medium heat cooking. This will cover cooking methods like quick sautee and oven cooking. [4]
When it comes to storing, you want to keep your groundnut oil bottle in a place that is away from direct sunlight. The best choice is a cool and dark place. The important thing to remember is that groundnut oils are best if they are used within six months from opening. Some types, especially refined ones, can last up to two years.
