Fox nuts, also known as makhana, are nutrient-rich seeds derived from the Euryale ferox plant, commonly cultivated in parts of India and Asia. These seeds are harvested, dried, and roasted to create a light, crunchy snack that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Makhana holds a special place in Indian cuisine and traditional practices. It is widely grown in states like Bihar and is often consumed during fasting periods such as Navratri due to its purity and health benefits.
Fox nuts are considered a superfood because they are:
Low in calories and fat
High in protein and fiber
Rich in antioxidants
A good source of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus
Regular consumption of makhana may help:
Support heart health
Manage weight effectively
Improve digestion
Regulate blood sugar levels
Fox nuts are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
Roasted as a healthy snack
Added to curries and gravies
Used in desserts like kheer
Seasoned with spices for flavored varieties
Common Name: Hand Pick Makhana
English Name: Premium Whole Fox Nut
Size: 6+ (commonly a mix of size 5 and 6)
Grade: Superior Quality – Grade A
Moisture Content: ≤ 12%
Broken Kernels: ≤ 2%
Foreign Matter / Dust: ≤ 0.5%
Fungus / Mold (Aflatoxin): Absent (100% fungus-free)
Weevilled Kernels: ≤ 1%
Popping Ratio: ≥ 95%
Color: White, uniform, clean
Texture: Firm, smooth surface, premium appearance
Size Distribution: Mostly size 5–6, handpicked for uniformity
Direct human consumption (snacks, roasted & salted, flavored makhana)
Export quality premium product
Ideal for retail packaging, gourmet stores, and health-conscious consumers
Common Name: Standard Makhana
English Name: Standard Whole Fox Nut
Size: Mix of size 4–5, some size 6
Grade: Good Quality – Grade B
Moisture Content: ≤ 13%
Broken Kernels: ≤ 5%
Foreign Matter / Dust: ≤ 1%
Fungus / Mold (Aflatoxin): ≤ 0.1% (within safe consumption limits)
Weevilled Kernels: ≤ 2%
Popping Ratio: ≥ 85%
Color: Mostly white, minor variations allowed
Texture: Firm, slight surface irregularities
Size Distribution: Mix of sizes 4–5, some 6, handpicked where possible
Suitable for human consumption, including roasted/flavored makhana
Mid-tier retail packaging and bulk sales
Preferred for domestic markets or medium-grade exports
Common Name: Mixed Makhana
English Name: Standard / Mixed Broken Fox Nut
Size: Mix of size 3–4, some smaller pieces
Grade: Standard Quality – Grade C.
Moisture Content: ≤ 14%
Broken Kernels: 10%–25%
Foreign Matter / Dust: ≤ 2%
Fungus / Mold (Aflatoxin): ≤ 0.5% (safe for feed use, not ideal for premium human consumption)
Weevilled Kernels: ≤ 4%
Popping Ratio: ≥ 70%
Color: Slightly off-white to cream, some variation allowed
Texture: Some surface imperfections, less uniform
Size Distribution: Mostly size 3–4, mixed small pieces
Suitable for human consumption, including roasted/flavored makhana
Industrial use (processing, snacks with smaller pieces)
Low-cost domestic consumption
Roasted & Flavored Makhana Makhana
This category includes roasted/popped fox nuts that are either plain or flavored with spices, salt, or sweet coatings. For snack production, Grade 2 and Grade 4 kernels are primarily used:
Grade 2: Larger kernels with high popping ratio (premium snack quality)
Grade 4: Slightly smaller or mixed kernels, still suitable for roasted/flavored products
These kernels are cleaned, hygienically processed, and retain high nutritional value, providing a crisp, crunchy, and tasty snack.