Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India)

Join us
Become a Member
Login

Makhana: India’s Next Superfood Export?

Makhana: India’s Next Superfood Export?

Makhana, also called foxnut or lotus seed, is quietly rising. It’s healthy, light and perfect as a snack. And it’s beginning to shine on the global stage.

From Bihar’s Ponds to Global Plates

  • India grows over 90% of the world’s makhana, especially in Bihar’s Mithila region.
  • Nutrient-rich: low in calories, gluten-free, high in protein and antioxidants.
  • Market growth: India’s makhana market may more than double to Rs 1890 crore by 2032 (CAGR ~10%).
  • Global demand projected to grow from $120 million (2024) to $193 million (2030).

A Superfood Gets a Boost from Leadership

  • PM Modi calls makhana a “superfood” he eats nearly 300 days a year.
  • The 2025 Union Budget named a Makhana Board, signalling strong sector support.
  • This boosts farmer confidence, processing capacity and brand-building.

Export Potential

  • India is the world’s largest exporter of makhana.
  • In 2023–24, exports reached ~25,130 metric tons, with buyers in the US, Canada and Australia.
  • Plant-based snack trends make roasted, flavoured and organic makhana attractive overseas.

Building Growth: GI Tag & Makhana Board

  • GI tag for Mithila Makhana (2022) protects its identity and boosts buyer trust.
  • The upcoming Makhana Board will aid farmers with processing, quality control and market access.

Facing Challenges: Climate & Costs

  • Climate change: Erratic rainfall and drying ponds threaten production in Bihar.
  • Costs are rising, with prices spiking after the 2025 Budget.
  • Solutions include smart policy, better infrastructure and farmer training.

Why It Matters

  • Health: A light snack with benefits – immunity boosting, diet-friendly, easy to digest.
  • Livelihoods: Supports thousands of small farmers; better processing can raise incomes.
  • Trade: Expanding exports bring foreign exchange and global recognition to India’s “superfood.”

What’s Next for Makhana

  • Advance the Makhana Board for farmer support, quality control and exports.
  • Invest in organic and sustainable farming to build on GI success.
  • Promote value-added products like gourmet makhana, flavoured snacks and health mixes.
  • Improve branded packaging and export linkages.

In one line: Makhana is not just a snack – it’s India’s next big superfood export, driving health, trade and rural prosperity.