The Exquisite Art of Fox Nut Production: A Journey Through Water Lily Seed Farming in Bihar, India

Introduction:

In the heart of Bihar, India, lies a remarkable culinary treasure known as Fox nuts, or Makana, the seeds of the prickly water lily plant. These small, unassuming seeds, once popped, transform into a delectable and nutritious snack cherished by locals and gaining popularity worldwide. However, the journey from harvesting to popping the seeds is a labor-intensive and meticulous process that involves traditional techniques and dedicated farmers. Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of water lily seed farming in Bihar, uncovering the secrets behind Fox nut production.

The Intricate Harvesting Process:

Harvesting water lily seeds requires immense skill and perseverance. Lakshmi, a seasoned farmer belonging to the Muller Community, has been tending to water lily plants for 35 years. Armed with a stick, he wades through water up to four feet deep, skillfully moving aside thorny plants to reveal the hidden seeds at the bottom of the pond. Each plant yields between 70 to 125 seeds, but not all are fit for harvesting. Some are deformed or unripe, while others sink into the mud, evading the farmers' meticulous gaze.

Water lily seeds require heavy rains in spring to bear fruits containing seeds. As summer approaches, the fruits release the seeds, signaling the start of the harvesting season. Each day, Lakshmi and his team collect around 100 kilograms of seeds, but the second harvest is even more challenging, yielding only a fraction of the first harvest. Weather plays a crucial role in determining the size and quality of water lily flowers and, in turn, the abundance of seeds.

The Popping Process:

Once harvested, the seeds undergo a thorough cleaning process. The real test begins during the popping process, which can take up to four days to achieve the desired outcome. Workers carefully roast the seeds in heated woks, but achieving the perfect pop is far from guaranteed. Some seeds may not pop, while others require a gentle touch due to their fragility.

The popping process is essential for the seeds' transformation into Fox nuts. Workers use a paddle called a "puppy" to pop the seeds, but even with precise technique, some seeds may not cooperate. The successful seeds are then cleaned and sorted by size before entering the market.

The Growing Popularity and New Farming Opportunities:

Water lily seed farming has seen an increase in popularity and demand in recent years. Rajesh Exports, a prominent company in the region, processes around 30 metric tons of seeds per season, of which only 40% successfully pop into high-quality Fox nuts. These nutritious and antioxidant-rich snacks are highly sought-after, both domestically and internationally, with prices reaching up to 170 dollars per kilogram in foreign markets.

The newfound market demand has led to the conversion of newly flooded areas into water lily seed farms. The local government's initiative to repurpose abandoned lowlands for cultivation has boosted the water lily seed farming sector, with 60% of the farming now taking place in flooded lowlands instead of traditional ponds and wetlands.

Conclusion:

Water lily seed farming in Bihar is an art form that demands dedication, precision, and resilience. From the challenging harvesting process to the delicate art of popping, Fox nut production remains a labor-intensive but rewarding endeavor for the dedicated farmers in the region. These exquisite seeds not only offer a delicious snack but also provide new opportunities and hope for local farmers as they gain popularity and recognition in the global market.