Outlook for high-oleic peanuts and peanut products in 21st century markets

Abstract

The global oilseed market is dominated by and steadily is becoming more dependent on palm and soybean as major commodity sources to meet growing demand for edible vegetable oil and protein. However, the loss of GRAS status for hydrogenated oils in the U.S., concern for sustainable production practices, debate on dietary saturated fats, and other constraints signal the need for economic alternatives in the oilseed commodity market. Recent technological advances elevate the position of oilseed peanut in such consideration [1]. For example, analysis of the peanut genome sequence has: 1) revealed the chromosomal location of genes that can protect the crop against major diseases (thus reducing need for multiple applications of fungicides), and genes that mediate high-oleic acid concentration (thus enhancing health benefits, longer product shelf-life, and improved flavor); 2) generated DNA markers that help breeders track and stack desired genes in hybrid lines; and 3) enabled modern DNA-sequence driven breeding methods that cut years off the timeline for developing varieties. These capabilities will help reduce cost of production, lead industry transition to high-oleic products, and ensure an adequate supply of safe, nutritious and healthy peanuts and peanut products.