Source: PRESS RELEASE, 1/25/22

 The water footprint of peanuts has been relatively small for decades, but updated data shows the industry has improved water efficiency by nearly a third.

Newly released data reports that 3.2 gallons of water is used to produce one ounce of shelled peanuts. Water usage for major tree nuts has also improved but remains higher than peanuts. Almonds use 28.7 gallons; pistachios use 23.6 gallons; and walnuts use 26.7 gallons of water to grow a one ounce serving.*


In the latest analysis, researchers used updated and “state-level input data such as harvested area, production, yield and irrigated area,” said Dr. Mesfin Mekonnen, assistant professor, Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alabama. “The use of updated and state-level data, particularly yield data, has improved the estimates.”

“Production research efforts through the National Peanut Board, state associations and the Peanut Research Foundation have led to significant improvements in yields over the past decade,” said NPB President and CEO Bob Parker. “Peanut farmers today are producing about 50% more peanuts with fewer inputs, including irrigation, than they were consistently 10 years ago.”

“Farmers are always looking to gain efficiencies in crop production,” said peanut grower, NPB Arkansas board member and Research Committee Chair Greg Baltz. “Peanut farmers have made significant investments in production research and this science has played a role in adoption of improved water use practices. We have an inherent desire for both economic and environmental security into the future.”

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