20 January 2026 · 6 min read
Importing Indian makhana: a buyer's specification guide
How fox nut grades are defined, what moisture and sortex figures to insist on, and how packing choices affect shelf life in transit.
Why grade language matters
Makhana is graded by popped diameter, described in India as 'sutta' — commonly 4, 5 and 6 sutta, from smallest to largest. Because the terminology is local, a purchase order that says only 'premium makhana' leaves both sides exposed. State the sutta grade, an acceptable percentage of undersize, and whether broken pieces are permitted.
Moisture and sortex
Moisture above roughly 8% invites mould during a long sea transit, particularly in humid discharge ports. Ask for the moisture figure on the pre-shipment report, and specify sortex cleaning so that unpopped seed and black specks are removed mechanically rather than by hand sorting alone.
Packing decisions
Makhana is light and bulky, so freight cost is driven by volume rather than weight. Laminated food-grade bags inside export cartons protect the product and stack efficiently. If you are packing for retail, agree the film specification and artwork before production; changing it later restarts the production schedule.
Documents to expect
A phytosanitary certificate, certificate of origin where required, a laboratory report covering moisture and microbiology, and the standard commercial set. Ask for these to be listed in the sales contract so there is no dispute at the point of customs clearance.
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