Peanut Inspector Certification Practice Exam

What happens to the color of Spanish peanuts during storage?

1. Becomes dark brown

2. Remains pale pinkish buff

3. Darkens to light brown

4. Changes to a reddish hue

The correct answer is: Darkens to light brown

The color of Spanish peanuts typically darkens to a light brown during storage due to various factors, including oxidation and exposure to air and light. As peanuts go through the storage process, the natural oils within them can begin to oxidize, leading to a change in color. This darkening effect is a natural consequence of the aging process and can indicate that the peanuts are undergoing chemical changes that may affect their flavor and quality. Therefore, understanding this color change is important for proper storage and assessment of peanut quality.