Is Peanut Power Plus Protein Powder Good for You? Nutrition Breakdown

An Overview of Peanut Power Plus

Peanut Power Plus is a powdered peanut protein product made by Jif. It is advertised as an easy way to add extra protein to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, baking recipes and more.

With 10g of protein per serving, Peanut Power Plus aims to help athletes, bodybuilders and active individuals meet their increased protein needs. But is this peanut protein supplement actually healthy?

Nutrition Profile of Peanut Power Plus

Here is the nutrition information for a 36g serving (2 scoops) of Peanut Power Plus:

Macronutrients

- Calories: 130

- Protein: 10g

- Fat: 5g

- Carbs: 8g

- Fiber: 2g

Micronutrients

- Iron: 2mg

- Calcium: 50mg

- Potassium: 150mg

Ingredients

- Peanut flour

- Salt

- Sugar

- Palm oil

Benefits of Peanut Power Plus

Here are some of the advertised benefits of Peanut Power Plus:

High in Protein

With 10g protein per serving, Peanut Power Plus provides a hefty dose to help meet protein needs, especially when paired with protein from whole foods.

Plant-Based Protein

The powder is vegan-friendly, providing protein from plants rather than animal sources like whey or casein.

Contains Healthy Fats

Peanuts provide a mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats important for health.

Gluten-Free

The product is made from peanuts only, so its naturally free of gluten ingredients.

Adds Peanut Flavor

Peanut Power Plus can provide the taste of peanut butter to recipes without adding as much fat.

Easy to Add to Foods and Drinks

The powder dissolves easily into liquids or soft foods like oatmeal.

Provides Fiber

A serving contains 2g of fiber, helping boost intake of this important nutrient.

Downsides of Peanut Power Plus

Some potential downsides of Peanut Power Plus include:

Contains Added Sugars

While only 2g per serving, sugar is added presumably for flavor. Those avoiding added sugars may want to limit intake.

High Sodium Content

With 220mg sodium per serving, the sodium content is quite high, especially for those limiting salt.

Allergies and Intolerances

Given this is a peanut-based product, those with peanut allergies obviously should avoid Peanut Power Plus.

Lower Protein than Whey or Casein

At just 10g per scoop, the protein content is lower than many whey or casein protein powders that provide 20-25g.

Added Palm Oil

Some may wish to avoid palm oil due to environmental sustainability concerns regarding palm production.

Higher Carb Content than Some Proteins

With 8g net carbs per serving, the carb content is higher than protein powders containing only 1-3g carbs.

Who Might Benefit from Peanut Power Plus?

Here are some individuals who may benefit from incorporating Peanut Power Plus into their diets:

Vegetarians and Vegans

Plant-based eaters can use Peanut Power Plus to boost their protein intake from non-animal food sources.

Those with Lactose Intolerance

People who struggle to digest whey or casein protein can often tolerate plant-based proteins like Peanut Power Plus.

Bakers and Cooks

Adding a scoop while baking can provide extra protein and peanut flavor to items like protein bars, cookies or muffins.

Athletes Seeking Vegan Protein

Vegan athletes can use Peanut Power Plus to help meet increased protein needs for building muscle and recovery.

Those Looking to Increase Protein Intake

Older adults, kids and picky eaters who struggle to eat high-protein whole foods may benefit from mixing Peanut Power Plus into smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt and more.

How Peanut Power Plus Compares to Other Protein Powders

Here is how Peanut Power Plus stacks up against other types of commonly used protein powders:

Whey Protein

- Typically contains 20-25g protein per serving

- Comes from dairy, so unsuitable for vegans/lactose intolerant

- Very fast-digesting protein, good for post-workout

- Minimal carbs and sugar

Casein Protein

- Also dairy-based with around 20-25g protein per serving

- Digests more slowly, good for providing sustained amino acids

- Contains little to no carbs or sugar

Pea Protein

- Vegan-friendly plant-based protein like Peanut Power Plus

- Similar protein content around 10-15g per serving

- Also provides fiber and healthy fats

Hemp Protein

- Contains 10-15g protein per serving

- Rich in fiber and healthy fats like omega-3s

- Has a nutty flavor well-suited for smoothies

Is Peanut Power Plus Healthy?

Overall, Peanut Power Plus can be included as part of a balanced diet for certain individuals who may benefit from extra plant-based protein. It provides a solid serving of protein, fiber and healthy fats.

However, it's always ideal to focus on getting most nutrition from whole food sources. Protein supplements shouldn't replace high-quality proteins from foods like eggs, yogurt, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.

Additionally, those limiting added sugars or sodium may want to consume Peanut Power Plus in moderation or avoid it. And people with peanut allergies must avoid peanut protein products.

For non-allergic individuals seeking an extra protein boost, Peanut Power Plus can be a healthy option when used occasionally in combination with a well-rounded, whole food diet.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.