Makhana, also called fox nut, is rising as a high-potential international superfood. Rooted in Indian traditions and grown predominantly in Bihar, which produces 90% of the world’s provide, Makhana is shifting past its cultural origins to change into a profitable trade.
“Possibly room right here to construct a extremely giant model, an Indian model that sells to the world. Personally, I’m hooked on Makhana,” wrote Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath in X.
Bihar’s flood-prone areas have changed into a energy for Makhana cultivation, producing 3 times the earnings in comparison with rice. The crop thrives naturally in water our bodies, and up to date improvements just like the ‘Sabour Makhana-1’ selection have doubled yields and improved the edible seed ratio from 40% to 60%.
This transformation has positioned Makhana as a essential earnings supply for 1000’s of farmers.
Filled with carbohydrates, protein, and important minerals like phosphorus and calcium, Makhana is low in fats and energy, interesting to health-conscious customers. Its capacity to help coronary heart well being, diabetes administration, and weight management has pushed a surge in international demand, pushing costs as excessive as ₹13,000/kg in worldwide markets.
The trade has expanded considerably, with manufacturing tripling within the final decade. Nonetheless, challenges persist, together with labor-intensive harvesting strategies and stringent export requirements, with solely 2% of seeds assembly international high quality benchmarks. Regardless of this, authorities subsidies and technological developments have mitigated many dangers, encouraging additional development.
Kamath shared information alongside along with his put up on startups capitalizing on the momentum. Mr. Makhana generates ₹50-60 lakh month-to-month, Farmley secured $6.7 million in funding, and Shakti Sudha Makhana is on observe to develop from ₹50 crore to ₹1000 crore by 2024.
These firms are redefining Makhana as greater than a snack, showcasing its potential as a worldwide product.
