Key Highlights:

• A closer glance into the top 5 makhana exporters in India

• India exported $3,153,630.19 worth of makhana in February 2025

• India’s top 3 makhana export destinations are the U.S.A., the U.A.E. and Canada in February 2025, accounting for $984,929.96, $554,323.72 and $532,231.27, respectively, as per makhana export data.

Once a humble snack confined to Bihari kitchens, fox nuts, most popularly called makhana, are now the superfood on the block. From FMCG giants to emerging food entrepreneurs, everyone is tapping into this healthy snack segment. In fact, what once started out as a traditional ingredient for religious fasts has evolved into today’s alternative for processed snacks globally. But what makes this little protein-rich nut a powerhouse in India's export market? Read on to decode how makhana has become a key export product for the nation, as well as the top 5 makhana exporters dominating the market.

 

Why Is Makhana The Next Big Thing In The Healthy Food Market?

The global food industry is undergoing a paradigm shift, with many consumers preferring nutrient-rich and locally sourced snacks as a part of their clean, sustainable eating lifestyle. In fact, they're on the hunt for foods that are packed with proteins and antioxidants while being low on calories and, most importantly, delicious, making makhana stand out from the crowd.

Coupled with the nut's low glycaemic index, makhana serves to be a suitable alternative for processed snacks, especially for diabetic patients. To add to that, the versatility of this humble ingredient has contributed significantly to its popularity.

Top 5 Makhana Exporters In India

The growing appeal of makhana has caught the attention of several national and international players. In fact, while there are other makhana-producing states in India, Bihar accounts for approximately 85% of the world’s makhana production and supplies to major destinations across the globe, including the U.S.A., the U.K., Australia, etc. Below are the top 5 makhana exporters in India, reigning in their position for the month of February 2025.

 

 

Even though there are other companies in India exporting makhana, the top five exporters for this month were Shree Bhagwati Flour and Foods Private Limited, Selmax Exports Private Limited, Kitchen Xpress Overseas Limited, Quality Spices and Food Exports Private Limited and Qik Exports Co., representing 7.79%, 6.37%, 4.99%, 3.73%, and 2.48%, respectively.

While each of these top makhana exporters has played a significant role in expanding the market, let’s take a closer look at the top 5 companies and how they’re making their footprint in this industry.

1. Shree Bhagwati Flour & Foods Private Limited

Topping the list of Indian makhana exporters is Shree Bhagwati Flour & Foods Private Limited. Established in 1962, this company is a key manufacturer of spices, lentils, flours, instant mixes, general groceries and other snacks.

With its 250,000 sq. ft. factory premises in Gujarat, the company exports a variety of makhana, including phool makhana, chana sweet makhana, peanut makhana and more.

What’s more is that the company’s makhana exports represented 7.79% of total Indian exports of makhana to different nations around the world. Not to mention, the company is the only one that exports more than 300 types of flours, mixes and spices in-house. That’s the reason why it’s a critical supplier for authentic Indian food-based products both nationally and internationally.

 

2. Selmax Exports Private Limited

Subsequent to Shree Bhagwati Flour and Foods Private Limited is Selmax Exports Private Limited. As a renowned exporter and manufacturer of Indian snacks, spices, herbal products and condiments, this company’s makhana exports accounted for 6.37% to various countries across the globe, including Canada, Australia, Russia, Switzerland and Singapore, adding to its diverse export product portfolio.

What’s more, the company’s commitment to quality is highly applaudable. By focusing on the freshness, taste and flavour at every stage of production, Selmax Exports Private Limited goes to every last extent to ensure its fox nuts meet the highest industry standards.

 

3. Kitchen Xpress Overseas Limited

Another company ranking as one of the top makhana exporters in India is Kitchen Xpress Overseas Limited. With 6 decades of experience in delivering premium quality namkeens, spices, masalas and pickles, the company has earned the name of a treasured companion in kitchens across India.

Not to mention, established in 1960, Kitchen Xpress Overseas Limited strives to be a global brand in every kitchen with its excellent practices in quality, preserving authenticity and retail mastery. As a supplier to more than 20 countries worldwide, the company’s makhana exports represented 4.99% of the total makhana market share in India alone, apart from its other export products.

 

4. Quality Spices and Food Exports Private Limited

Powering the Indian makhana export market is Quality Spices and Food Exports Private Limited. Established in 2008, the company, with its unwavering commitment to excellence and quality, exports a diverse array of products, including whole spices, ground spices, healthy snacks, oils, makhana, pulses and many more.

In addition, the company’s makhana exports accounted for 3.73% of India’s makhana export market. The company’s global presence spans across several continents, including North America, Europe and multiple countries in Asia.

Not to mention, the company is regarded for its stringent quality control, with strict compliance with food safety practices to guarantee its clientele the best products.

What’s interesting about this particular Indian makhana exporter is its infrastructure. Built with a processing capacity of 1200 tonnes per month, an automatic pulverisation system, fumigation chambers and cold storage units, the company employs the best of cutting-edge technology to procure the finest products.

 

5. QIK Exports

Last but not least is QIK Exports. Standing as Quresh-Idris Khuzaima Exports, this Indian makhana exporter specialises in procuring and delivering high-quality food products to its global clientele. While it has an extensive portfolio of export products, its diverse range of makhana products, featuring Schezwan makhana and Achari-flavoured makhana, is what sets this company apart from other makhana exporters. Not to add, the company’s makhana exports accounted for 2.48% of the aggregate makhana exports in India.

 

The Way Forward

On the whole, India continues to cement its position as one of the top makhana exporters. Transforming from a regional delicacy to a global superfood, makhana strives to be a mainstream health snack. Looking ahead, the market is filled with numerous opportunities, especially with innovative products. In fact, many companies are trying their luck with makhana-based milk as a plant-based alternative to dairy products.

All in all, the Indian makhana export market looks promising. If you want to take your business centre stage and connect with active Makhana buyers and sellers from around the world, then Ex-Im is the perfect tool for you. Book a demo today!

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

1. Who is the largest exporter of makhana?
According to import-export data, India is the largest exporter of makhana. In fact, India exported $3,153,630.019 worth of makhana in February 2025.

2. What is another alternative name for makhana?
Makhana has several names around the world, but it is commonly called 'lotus seeds or fox nuts.

3. Which countries import makhana from India?
As per the latest import-export data, Indian makhana is supplied to the USA, the UK, Australia, the UAE and Canada, to name a few.

4. Which state is the biggest producer of makhana in India?
While there are a few states producing makhana in India, Bihar is one of the leading producers of makhana in India, accounting for 85% of production in the nation.

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