Fox nuts, also known as Makhana, are an important crop in India. They are widely used in snacks, sweets and religious offerings. Grown in water bodies, these nutritious seeds are packed with protein and antioxidants. A particular Indian state is the largest producer of fox nuts, contributing significantly to the country’s supply. Its suitable climate and traditional farming methods make it ideal for large-scale production.
India produces around 1,20,000 metric tons of fox nuts (makhana) from 15,000 hectares of land. After processing, this gives about 40,000 metric tons of popped makhana. Bihar is the largest producer, contributing nearly 90% of the total production.
Bihar is the largest producer of fox nuts, also called makhana, in India. It contributes about 90% of the world’s total makhana production. This special seed comes from the water lily plant and is widely used in Indian cuisine, especially during fasting. Farmers in Bihar have been growing makhana for a long time, and with new farming techniques, production has increased significantly.
Makhana is the seed of a water lily plant that grows in ponds and lakes. After harvesting, these seeds are roasted and popped, making them crunchy and light. Makhana is considered very healthy because it is rich in protein, low in calories and good for digestion.
Several districts in Bihar are well-known for growing fox nuts. Some of the top producers include:
These areas have a perfect environment for makhana cultivation because they have many ponds and water bodies.
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