Only with caution — peanuts carries real risks for alpacas.
Not toxic, but high in fat; moldy peanuts can carry aflatoxin. Peanut hay is a good forage.
- Verdict
- With caution
- Serving size
- A few unsalted shelled peanuts
- Preparation
- Unsalted only; check for mold.
- Food group
- Seeds & nut
- Sugar per 100 g
- 4.7 g
Risks to know
- Aflatoxin in moldy peanuts
- High fat
Nutrition facts (per 100 g)
| Nutrient | Amount | What it means for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 6.5 g | Dry — offer water |
| Energy | 567 kcal | Calorie-dense — tiny portions |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | Moderate |
| Fiber | 8.5 g | Good fiber |
| Protein | 25.8 g | |
| Fat | 49.2 g | High fat — limit |
| Calcium | 92 mg | |
| Phosphorus | 376 mg | |
| Ca : P ratio | 0.2 : 1 | Inverted — phosphorus-heavy, limit for males |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg | Not required — camelids make their own |
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy — “Peanuts, all types, raw” (FDC ID 172430).
Sugar compared with other treats
Grams of sugar per 100 g. Lower-sugar treats are kinder to the fore-stomach microbes and waistline.
Safer alternatives
Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS)YesChia SeedsIn moderationFlaxseedIn moderationPumpkin SeedsIn moderation
Frequently asked questions
Can alpacas eat peanuts?
Only with caution — peanuts carries real risks for alpacas. Not toxic, but high in fat; moldy peanuts can carry aflatoxin. Peanut hay is a good forage.
How much peanuts can I give my alpaca?
A few unsalted shelled peanuts. Treats should stay under about 5% of the diet.
How should I prepare peanuts for alpacas?
Unsalted only; check for mold.
How much sugar is in peanuts?
About 4.7 g of sugar per 100 g (USDA FoodData Central).
Can baby alpacas (crias) eat it?
Crias should get milk, then hay and pasture. Hold off on treats until they are weaned and eating forage well, and always use tiny pieces.
See the complete list of foods alpacas can and can't eat, our feeding guide and the toxic plant checker.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a veterinarian who has examined your animals. Camelid medicine uses many drugs “extra-label”, so dosing must come from your vet. In an emergency, call your vet first. Read our disclaimer · How we write and review content.