Makhana, also known as fox nut, is emerging as a global superfood with great potential. Rooted in Indian traditions and grown primarily in Bihar, which produces 90% of the world’s supply, Makhana goes beyond its cultural origins to become a lucrative industry.
“Maybe there would be room here to build a really big brand, an Indian brand that sells all over the world. Personally, I am addicted to Makhana,” Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, wrote in X.
The flood-prone areas of Bihar have become an asset for Makhana cultivation, generating three times more income than rice. The crop thrives naturally in water bodies, and recent innovations like the ‘Sabour Makhana-1’ variety have doubled yields and improved the ratio of edible seeds from 40% to 60%.
This transformation has positioned Makhana as a vital source of income for thousands of farmers.
Packed with carbohydrates, protein and essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium, Makhana is low in fat and calories, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Its ability to support heart health, diabetes management and weight control has led to an increase in global demand, pushing prices up to ₹13,000/kg in international markets.
The industry has grown significantly, with production tripling over the past decade. However, challenges persist, including labor-intensive harvesting methods and strict export standards, with only 2% of seeds meeting global quality standards. Despite this, government subsidies and technological advances have mitigated many risks, encouraging continued growth.
Kamath shared data with his article on startups capitalizing on this momentum. Mr Makhana generates between ₹50-60 lakh per month, Farmley has secured $6.7 million in funding and Shakti Sudha Makhana is on track to grow from ₹50 crore to ₹1,000 crore by 2024.
These companies are redefining Makhana as more than just a snack, demonstrating its potential as a global product.
