Here is the nutritional breakdown for one tablespoon of peanut oil (1):
Calories: 119
Fat: 14 grams
Saturated fat: 2.3 grams
Monounsaturated fat: 6.2 grams
Polyunsaturated fat: 4.3 grams
Vitamin E: 11% of the RDI
Phytosterols: 27.9 mg
The fatty acid breakdown of peanut oil is 20% saturated fat, 50% monounsaturated fat (MUFA) and 30% polyunsaturated fat (PUFA).
The main type of monounsaturated fat found in peanut oil is called oleic acid, or omega-9. It also contains high amounts of linoleic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid, and smaller amounts of palmitic acid, a saturated fat.
The high amount of omega-6 fats that peanut oil contains may not be a good thing. These fats tend to cause inflammation and have been linked to various health problems.
The considerable amount of monounsaturated fat found in this oil makes it a go-to for frying and other methods of high-heat cooking. However, it does contain a good amount of polyunsaturated fat, which is less stable at high temperatures.
On the other hand, peanut oil is a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that has many health benefits like protecting the body from free radical damage and reducing the risk of heart disease