can you eat raw peanuts

Raw peanuts are generally safe to eat but there are important safety considerations. Raw peanuts can sometimes be contaminated with a mold called Aspergillus flavus, which produces aflatoxin—a toxin linked to liver damage and cancer if consumed in large amounts over time. The risk of aflatoxin contamination is primarily associated with improperly stored or dried peanuts. Cooking, roasting, or boiling peanuts can reduce some of the aflatoxin, but it does not eliminate it completely. In the U.S., there is strict monitoring of aflatoxin levels in peanuts, and peanuts exceeding safety limits are destroyed. Choosing peanuts grown and processed in countries with strict safety regulations and inspecting for any mold, shriveled, or bitter peanuts can help reduce risk. Eating raw peanuts occasionally from trusted sources should not pose significant harm given these precautions. However, some prefer roasting peanuts to enhance flavor, aid digestion, and reduce toxin risk. Nutritionally, raw peanuts have high protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them nutritious if safe ones are consumed. If the raw peanuts taste bitter or smell musty, it is advised to avoid eating those as a sign of potential aflatoxin presence. Overall, raw peanuts are not poisonous but vigilance about their source, freshness, and appearance is important for safe consumption.