Tag: Fox nut

Over 90% of the world's makhana is produced in Bihar, India, but many people are still confused about its true origin. Often misidentified as lotus seeds, makhana is actually the popped seed of a completely different aquatic plant. This article clarifies which plant is makhana made from, exploring its journey from a thorny water lily to a popular superfood.

With a global market for 'lotus seeds' worth millions, a major botanical identity crisis has emerged. The surprising truth is that the crunchy, popcorn-like snack known as makhana is not a lotus seed at all.

Over 90% of the world's commercial Fox Nut production comes from Bihar, India, but the regional name 'taal makhana' can actually refer to two entirely different plants. This creates a common point of confusion for those searching for the correct English name for Taal makhana, as the name can translate to either 'fox nut' (*Euryale ferox*) or 'marsh barbel' (*Asteracantha longifolia*), each with distinct uses.