Makhana FAQ — Nutrition, Storage, Fasting and Delivery

About makhana

What is makhana?

Makhana is the seed of Euryale ferox, a water lily. It grows at the bottom of ponds,
mainly in Bihar, and is harvested by hand — divers collect the seeds from the mud, which are then
dried, roasted in hot sand and popped with a wooden mallet. It is also called phool makhana, fox
nut or lotus seed.

Is makhana the same as popcorn?

No. Popcorn is a maize kernel. Makhana is a water lily seed. They pop by a similar mechanism —
heat turning internal moisture to steam — but they are unrelated plants with different nutrition.

Is makhana fried?

Ours is not. MAKHANZA phool makhana is roasted, which is why it contains 0.1g of total fat per
100g. Fried snacks typically carry 30g or more of fat per 100g because the oil is absorbed.

Nutrition

How many calories are in makhana?

318 kcal per 100g of plain roasted makhana, which is about 159 kcal in a 50g pack. This is
calculated using the energy conversion factors set out in India’s labelling regulations. Many
sources quote 347 kcal, which uses the USDA convention — the difference is explained here.

How much protein is in makhana?

Plain roasted phool makhana contains 9.7g of protein per 100g. Across our range: makhana pasta
13.76g, makhana noodles 12.46g, and makhana cookies 8.2g, all per 100g.

Is makhana gluten free?

Makhana itself contains no gluten. Check the ingredient list on any flavoured or blended product,
as other ingredients are present.

Does makhana contain sugar?

Plain roasted makhana contains no added sugar and 0g total sugars. Flavoured and blended
products vary — the figure is printed on each pack.

Fasting and diet

Can I eat makhana during vrat or fasting?

Yes. Makhana is a seed rather than a cereal grain, which is why it is traditionally eaten during
Navratri, Ekadashi and Shivratri. Our raw and plain roasted makhana contain no grain, onion or
garlic. More on fasting here.

Is makhana vegetarian and vegan?

Yes. Every MAKHANZA product is vegetarian. The DHA we use comes from marine microalgae rather
than fish, so the fortified range is suitable for vegans too —
the detail is here.

Storage and shelf life

How should I store makhana?

In an airtight container, away from moisture. Makhana absorbs humidity readily and goes soft
rather than stale. If a pack loses its crunch, five minutes in a dry pan over low heat restores it.

How long does it keep?

The best-before date is printed on every pack. Once opened, keep it sealed and eat within a few
weeks for the best texture.

Ordering

Do you deliver across India?

Yes, we ship nationwide from Chennai. Delivery is free on orders over ₹499. Every price on the
site already includes GST, so the amount shown is the amount you pay.

How can I track my order?

You will receive tracking details by email once your order is dispatched. If anything is
unclear, email info@makhanza.co.in with your order number.

Can I return an order?

Food products can only be returned unopened and undamaged. Our
return and refund policy sets out the details.
If a pack arrives damaged or the seal is broken, contact us straight away with the batch code and
we will replace it.

The company

Who makes MAKHANZA?

MAKHANZA is a brand of RASI Lifestyle, based in Ramapuram, Chennai. Everything is made in our
own FSSAI-certified kitchen. Our FSSAI registration number is 22426072000851.
More about us here.

Is every batch tested?

Yes. Each batch is tested at an NABL-accredited laboratory before it is packed.

Do you supply retailers or export?

We work with retailers and distributors across South India and ship nationally. There are
separate routes for distribution,
export and
affiliates.

Where our figures come from

We would rather you checked than took our word for it.