Not long ago, makhana was seen as a humble fasting snack, sold loose in small-town bazaars. But today, it’s sitting on supermarket shelves in London, New York, and Dubai — packaged as “fox nuts” or “lotus seeds.” This transformation from a local food to an international super-snack tells us one thing clearly: makhana has strong export potential.
The global demand for healthy, plant-based snacks has been rising at a remarkable pace. Consumers in countries like the US, UK, and Australia are actively looking for alternatives to fried chips and calorie-heavy munchies. That’s where makhana fits in perfectly — gluten-free, protein-rich, low in calories, and versatile enough to be flavored in dozens of ways. Many international food analysts even compare makhana’s rise to that of quinoa and chia seeds — both once niche products, now global superfoods.
India, being the largest producer of makhana, naturally holds the key to this opportunity. Bihar alone contributes to more than 80% of global production. With proper processing and branding, Indian entrepreneurs can capture international markets where “better-for-you” snacking trends are booming. The fact that makhana is still relatively unknown outside South Asia actually works in its favor — it offers the scope to build new stories, new brands, and even premium positioning.
When it comes to export, packaging and compliance are critical. International buyers expect hygienic, vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed packs that preserve freshness for months. Food safety certifications like FSSAI, ISO, HACCP, and in some cases even USDA Organic or EU Organic, make a huge difference in entering global markets. This might seem like a big investment upfront, but it allows your product to sit on shelves of health stores, gyms, and even luxury supermarkets abroad.
Profit margins in exports are often higher compared to domestic markets. A 70-gram pouch of flavored makhana that sells for ₹100 in India can retail at $3–$4 abroad — almost triple the value. Even after shipping and import duties, the price difference leaves room for attractive profits. Add to this the rising Indian diaspora who already recognize and consume makhana, and you have a ready audience to start with.
Of course, challenges exist. Exporting means navigating logistics, dealing with customs, and building distribution networks in foreign countries. Competing with established global snack brands also requires aggressive marketing and storytelling. But Indian makhana has one big advantage — it’s unique. Unlike peanuts or popcorn, makhana doesn’t have a global competitor. Whoever establishes strong brands early could dominate the space for years to come.
The way forward is clear: India has both the production strength and the cultural ownership of makhana. By investing in better processing, global certifications, and creative branding, entrepreneurs can turn makhana from a fasting snack into an international superfood phenomenon.
In other words, taking makhana global isn’t just a business opportunity — it’s India’s chance to showcase one of its oldest, most unique food treasures to the world.