The debate over whether peanuts are legumes has sparked discussion among experts and organizations. The American Peanut Council, National Peanut Board, and USDA classify them as legumes, aligning with their botanical characteristics. Research by food scientists, nutritionists, and botanists supports this view, emphasizing their nutritional similarities to beans and lentils. However, industry associations and labeling regulations sometimes refer to peanuts as nuts, due to their culinary use. Ultimately, the scientific evidence suggests that peanuts should be considered legumes based on their botanical classification, nutritional content, and historical agricultural practices.