What comes to your mind when we say makhana? The most popular replies will be - a healthy, delicious snack. To add on to its popularity, the Government of India has recently awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Mithila Makhana. According to a PTI report, this step is taken to help makhana cultivators get "the maximum price for their premium produce".
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently took to Twitter to announce the news and wrote, "Mithila Makhana registered with GI Tag, farmers will get profit and it will be easier to earn. Due to Geographical Indication Tag to Mithila Makhana in the festive season, people outside Bihar will be able to use this auspicious material with reverence."
Also Read: From Darjeeling Tea To Bikaneri Bhujia: Guide To GI Tagged Foods Across India
Find the tweet below:
As per the certificate, GI has been registered in the name of Mithilanchal Makhana Utpadak Sangh. This tag helps establish the assurance of quality and uniqueness of the agricultural/natural/handicraft/industrial product, available in a particular region.
PTI further reports, "Once a product gets this tag, any person or company cannot sell a similar item under that name. This tag is valid for a period of 10 years following which it can be renewed. The other benefits of GI registration include legal protection to that item, prevention against unauthorised use by others, and promoting exports."
What Is Mithila Makhana:
Mithila Makhana is makhana (fox nuts) grown in the Mithila region of Bihar. As per experts, it is one of the three prestigious cultural identities of Mithila - other two being pan (betel leaf) and machh (fish). In Maithili (language), makhana is referred to as makhan and it contains a rich nutrient profile.
For the unversed, makhana is loaded with protein, fibre, iron, calcium and other essential nutrients that help benefit our overall health. Click here to know more about the health benefits of makhana.
What fascinates us more is the fact that makhana makes for a super versatile food ingredient too. From chivda to kheer - you can make different delicious recipes with a handful makhana. We curated a list of some delicious makhana-based recipes for you. Click here to know more.
What are you waiting for? Try these delicious makhana-based dishes and make your diet a bit healthier.