Introduction

Fox nuts, also known as “Makhana” or “Lotus Seeds,” are the seeds of the lotus flower (Euryale Ferox). Native to Asian countries, particularly India, these seeds have been an integral part of traditional medicine and culinary practices for centuries. Fox nuts are valued for their nutritional content and are gaining popularity as a healthy snack option worldwide.

History

The use of fox nuts can be traced back to ancient Ayurvedic texts, where they are praised for their nutritional and medicinal properties. In India, fox nuts have been a staple in various regional cuisines and are often used in religious ceremonies. Over the years, these seeds have become a versatile ingredient, finding their way into both sweet and savoury dishes.

Global Scenario

The increasing demand for healthy and natural foods has propelled the popularity of Fox Nuts as an alternative to processed snacks. In recent years, fox nuts have gained global recognition as a nutritious and low-calorie healthy snack. It is now treated as a ‘Superfood’ and its demand is expected to increase rapidly in the coming years. Makhana is considered as a healthy alternative for Popcorn. Its unique crunchy texture and ability to absorb flavours make it a versatile ingredient in global cuisines.

Global Makhana market size is nearly USD 72 Million as on 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7% yoy.

The leading producers of Makhana is India, China, Thailand and Japan. Potential of Makhana in western countries like USA, UK and rest of Europe is largely untapped.

Global Trends & Scenario of Foxnuts

INDIA
  • Bihar produces 90% of the world production of fox nut. It has been adapted to the tropical climate of India and is found in natural, wild forms in various parts of north-east India and scattered pockets of central and northern India.

  • Another significant contribution was seen in the demand for fox nut when two Indian players Makhanawala’s and Too Yum introduced packed fox nut snacks including chatpata masala and classic homestyle flavors that has undoubtedly changed the consumption for fox nut in the region.

UNITED KINGDOM
  • Nuto a London-based start-up have started producing popped lotus seeds manufactured in India and shipped to the U.K. the supply of fox nut is stable, as it is harvested twice per year. CEO of the company was inspired to create a brand that is healthier and provides savoury snacks to the masses. With growing popularity of fox nut in France, Germany, and Italy has also created high growth opportunity of the fox nut producers, due to the large customer base in these regions.
CHINA
  • In China, it has been cultivated in the Hainan and Taiwan islands for 3 – 4 millennia and widely used in Chinese medicine. Raw makhana seed powder is an essential ingredient of the baby foods in China. Its distribution includes the islands of Taiwan (Formosa) and Kyusyu, Shikoku and Honshu in Japan.

  • The most common use of the seed is in the form of lotus seed paste, which is used extensively in Chinese pastries as well as in Japanese desserts.

  • Dried lotus seeds must be soaked in water overnight prior to use. They can then be added directly to soups and congee or used in other dishes. Fresh lotus seeds are sold in the seed heads of the plant and eaten by breaking the individual seeds out of the cone-shaped head and removing the rubbery shell. Crystallized lotus seeds, made by drying lotus seeds cooked in syrup, are a common Chinese snack, especially during Chinese new year.

COLOMBIA
  • Lotus seeds are also common in the northern part of Colombia, especially in cities like Barranquilla and Cartagena. Locals usually refer to lotus seeds as “martillo.” Fresh lotus seeds are sold in street markets and are generally eaten raw by the locals.
(Per 100 Gram)

Nutritional Value of Makhana

Fat

0.1 gm

Carbohydrates

77 gm

Total Calories

350

Protein

9.7 gm

Dietary Fibre

7.6 gm

Potassium

1.4 mg

Iron

3.2

Calcium

60 mg

10 Health Benefits of Makhana

WE OFFER

PACKAGING

Total Value & Volume of Exports in India

Total Value: $1,388,394

Total Quantity: 292,822

Average Price

Average price per unit: $4.74

Average value per shipment: $1,126

Top Suppliers

United States: $751,132

United Kingdom: $171,480

Canada: $120,861

Top Ports of Discharge

Mundra: $545,155

Nhava Sheva Sea: $475,398

Sabarmati: ICD $110,582

For a detailed quotation, kindly email us at nayann@hotc.in

Need Help?