Peanuts Water Usage by pblovers May 1, 2018 In comparison to other nuts, peanuts (yes, we know they aren’t technically nuts) require the least amount of water to produce and have the smallest carbon footprint. For a one-ounce serving of shelled peanuts, it only requires 3.2 gallons to grow. How do other snacking nuts compare? Graphic curtesy of National Peanut Board. Not only do peanuts have unique growing characteristics and require a small amount of water, they are beneficial in many other ways. With more protein than any other nut, peanuts benefit our health by providing more than 30 essential vitamins and nutrients. Peanuts and peanut butter also make a positive impact on our economy by supporting more than 7,000 peanut farming families, local communities and businesses across the supply chain.