The Rising Price of Makhana: Why This Superfood Is Getting Expensive

Makhana, or fox nuts, has long been a staple in Indian households, revered for its nutritional value and health benefits. But recently, the price of this superfood has surged, leaving consumers wondering why a traditionally affordable snack is now a luxury item. Let’s break down the reasons behind the price hike, the benefits of consuming makhana (makhana khane ke faayde), and why it’s still worth adding to your diet despite the cost.

Prices Soar: What's Driving the Increase?

As of 2025, the price of 1kg of makhana has skyrocketed to ₹900–₹1200, depending on the brand and quality. Just a few years ago, it was available for nearly half the price. Several factors are contributing to this steep rise:

1. Increased Demand for Superfoods
With a global shift towards healthier eating habits, makhana has gained immense popularity, not just in India but worldwide. Its high makhana protein content and low-calorie profile make it a favorite among fitness enthusiasts, leading to a surge in demand.

2. Limited Production & Labor-Intensive Harvesting
Makhana is primarily cultivated in Bihar, particularly in the Mithilanchal region, which accounts for over 85% of India’s production. The harvesting process is manual and labor-intensive, requiring skilled workers to extract makhana seeds from the water, dry them, and pop them. With rising labor costs, the overall production cost has increased significantly.

3. Climate Change & Unstable Weather Conditions
Erratic rainfall and fluctuating temperatures have affected water levels in makhana plant-growing regions, impacting yields. A lower supply with increasing demand naturally pushes prices higher.

4. Export Boom
India is the largest producer of makhana, but with exports growing rapidly to countries like the USA, UK, and UAE, domestic prices are seeing an upward trend. International buyers are willing to pay a premium, leaving Indian consumers to bear the brunt.

Makhana Khane Ke Faayde: Makhana Benefits ; Why It’s Still Worth It

Despite the price hike, makhana nutrition makes it a superfood worth consuming. It’s packed with essential nutrients that make it a must-have in your diet.

 1. Rich in Protein & Fiber
Makhana is an excellent plant-based protein source, making it ideal for vegetarians and vegans. Its high fiber content also aids digestion and promotes gut health.

 2. Low in Calories, High in Antioxidants
Unlike fried snacks, makhana is low in calories and rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. If you’re conscious about makhana calories, it’s a great snack that doesn’t add unnecessary weight.

 3. Supports Heart Health
It contains low sodium and high magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.

 4. A Natural Anti-Aging Snack
The presence of kaempferol, a natural flavonoid, helps slow down aging by reducing oxidative stress and improving skin elasticity.

 5. Good for Diabetics & Weight Loss
With a low glycemic index (GI), makhana is perfect for diabetics. It also keeps you full for longer, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding weight loss.

 Should You Still Buy Makhana?

Even with rising prices, makhana benefits outweigh the cost. Given its high makhana protein, fiber, and antioxidant content, it’s a far better snack than processed alternatives. If you’re looking to buy makhana at a better price, consider bulk purchasing from local markets or sourcing it directly from Bihar-based suppliers.

Final Thoughts

The surge in makhana price is driven by rising demand, labor-intensive production, climate change, and increasing exports. While it may seem expensive now, the health benefits of makhana nutrition make it a worthwhile investment in your diet. Whether you're looking to boost your protein intake, improve heart health, or maintain a youthful glow, makhana remains a superfood worth every penny.

So, next time you reach for a snack, remember—spending on makhana is an investment in your health! If you ever wondered, what is makhana in English?—it’s called fox nuts or lotus seeds, but its benefits remain the same, no matter the name.