Groundnut

Groundnut, also known as peanut, is a legume crop cultivated mainly for its edible seeds. Despite being called a "nut," it belongs to the legume family and grows underground, unlike tree nuts. The plant is native to South America but is now widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in countries like India, China, and Nigeria. Groundnuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, and various essential nutrients, making them a popular food source. They can be consumed raw, roasted, boiled, or processed into products like peanut butter and groundnut oil. The oil extracted from groundnuts is widely used in cooking due to its mild flavor and high smoke point. Groundnut also plays an important role in crop rotation, improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Its versatility and nutritional value make it a staple in both household and industrial food applications.