Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, has become one of India’s favourite healthy snacks. Whether roasted, salted, or flavoured, the quality of makhana is often defined by its grade and size. Among these, “3+ Suta” makhana is one of the most commonly used and best-selling varieties in the market. But what does “3+ Suta” actually mean? Let’s explore its size, grading, and uses in simple words.
Understanding “3+ Suta” in Makhana
The word “Suta” (सूता) literally means “thread” in Hindi, but in makhana grading it represents the size of the seed kernel after popping. Traders in regions like Bihar and Madhubani, the hub of makhana production, traditionally use this term to classify makhana sizes.
When you see 3+ Suta on a pack, it indicates that each makhana seed is larger than 3 mm in diameter based on the sieve measurement system. It’s a medium-to-large grade that offers a perfect balance between crispness and affordability — making it the most popular choice for both home use and commercial roasting.
Makhana Size Grades Explained
Makhana is categorized into different grades depending on size and appearance. Here’s a simple chart to understand what each grade means:
| Grade | Description | Typical Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Suta | Small size (around 2 mm) | Used in powder, prasad, or low-cost mixes |
| 3 Suta | Medium size | Common in regular consumer packs |
| 3+ Suta | Medium-large size | Perfect for roasted and flavoured makhana |
| 4 Suta | Large premium kernels | Used in premium roasted varieties |
| 5 Suta | Extra-large kernels (export grade) | For luxury gifting and dry-fruit blends |
Why 3+ Suta Is a Smart Choice
The 3+ Suta makhana combines great texture, size, and price balance, making it a preferred grade for daily consumption. It gives a uniform roasted appearance, crunchy bite, and retains its shape even after seasoning.
Benefits of choosing 3+ Suta makhana:
- Ideal for roasted and flavoured snacks
- Attractive size for packaging display
- Retains crispness and low breakage rate
- Affordable compared to 4 Suta and 5 Suta grades
- Perfect for mixing with dry fruits or spices
How Traders Grade Makhana
After harvesting, makhana seeds are popped and passed through sieves of different mesh sizes. Each sieve corresponds to a “Suta” level — 2 Suta, 3 Suta, 3+, 4, or 5. The larger the number, the bigger the kernel size and the higher the price. Grading is important because it defines the product’s market value, visual appeal, and cooking performance.
Understanding makhana grades like 3+ Suta helps consumers make better buying choices and ensures they get the right balance of taste, quality, and price. Whether you enjoy them plain or flavoured, choosing the right grade guarantees a satisfying and healthy snacking experience.
Next time you visit the TIRTHAS™ Farm Store, look for 3+ Suta Makhana — perfectly roasted, crunchy, and crafted with farm-fresh quality.