Raw makhana

Raw Makhana (Euryale ferox), also known as Fox Nut or Gorgon Nut, is a traditional GI-tagged product of Bihar, India. It is primarily harvested from ponds and wetlands in the Mithilanchal region (Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Supaul). Raw makhana refers to the dried seeds collected after harvesting, which are not directly edible due to their hard shell. These seeds undergo roasting and popping to produce the popular “puffed makhana,” widely consumed as a healthy snack, in curries, and in sweets. Raw makhana also serves as the base material for value-added products like makhana flour, nutraceuticals, and export-quality snacks. It acts as an intermediate product between farmers and processors, with growing demand in domestic as well as international markets. Rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, makhana is increasingly recognized as a superfood, creating strong opportunities for both trade and value addition.