Mithila Makhana gets a GI tag; learn more about this snack ingredient

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• Aug 24, 2022 | Poonam Nath

The aquatic fox nut variation Mithila Makhana, sometimes referred to as "makhan," is well-known for being consumed by Maithil Brahmins during Kojagara Puja.

Digital Desk: To ensure that farmers receive the highest possible price for their produce, the government has given "Mithila Makhana" a geographical indication (GI) tag.

In a tweet that was translated, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal made the announcement: "Mithila Makhana [is] registered with the GI tag; farmers will get profit, and it will be easier [for them] to earn." People outside Bihar would be able to use this auspicious material with reverence because of the geographic indicator tag attached to Mithila Makhana throughout the festive season.

Notably, Mithila Makhana is the fifth product from Bihar to be given the GI label. As its name suggests, it is grown in the Mithila region of Bihar and some areas of Nepal. Before this, the Jardalu Mango from Bhagalpur, the Katarni Dhaan (rice), the Maghai Paan from Nawada, and the Shahi Litchi from Muzaffarpur had all received recognition.

How many of you are aware of the term GI Tag?

The government of India's public engagement website, "MyGovIndia," explained in a tweet that this tag "ensures no one other than those registered as approved users is permitted to use the popular product name."

It is a "sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess attributes or a reputation that are due to that origin," to put it another way. A sign must identify a product as "originating in a certain place" for the GI tag to work with it.

What could be better than munching on Mithila Makhana?

The term "Makhan" is also used to refer to Mithila Makhana. It is a unique variety of aquatic fox nuts and goes by the botanical name "Euryale Ferox Salisb." The cuisine is thought to be famously enjoyed by Maithil Brahmins during Kojagara Puja, which is a celebration for newlywed couples.

In general, makhana is praised as a nutritious Indian snack. The Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge claims that after being treated, these seeds are edible.

They bloom on a leaf in the pond before being gathered, cleansed, and sun-dried for hours. They are then cooked in a pan over high heat. Their outer shells are then torn, allowing the white puff to escape.

It is said to be low in cholesterol, fat, and sodium, and it is also a good weight-loss snack due to its low-calorie count.

Makhana is a high-nutritional-value food that is abundant in proteins, carbs, fiber, potassium, iron, and zinc.

Makhana can help you overcome sleeplessness and arthritis, as well as increase your cognitive skills.