Like us, you are probably always on the lookout for innovative snacks that are delicious and good for you. Whether you’ve heard from friends, seen them in grocery stores or in the press , there has been a lot of buzz around the popped water lily seed. Named one of the top health food trends of 2019 by Whole Foods Market and Forbes , popped water lily seeds are making their mark in the US. SPINS data reports that this easy to eat, the internationally-inspired snack is the perfect on the go option, packed with antioxidants and plant-based protein. Even The Doctor’s  are talking about this superfood snack! 

What are water lily seeds?

The seeds themselves derive from the Eurale Fox, or water lily plant, which typically grows in the waters of Eastern Asia. The harvesting process is time-intensive and requires much skill. After harvest, the seeds are roasted over high heat to make them pop, transforming the seeds into a nutritional, natural and crunchy puffed snack!

The snack is typically consumed during periods of fasting or celebrations however, they can be enjoyed in many different ways. The beauty of popped water lily seeds is their versatility. They can be eaten as a puffed snack, trail mix, added to curry dishes and even toppings for salads and soups. 

Health Benefits

The nutrient content of popped water lily seeds definitely sets them apart from your average snack. They contain free-radical fighting antioxidants, minerals that come from the beautiful aquatic Eurale Fox plant and kaempferol, a flavonoid that has both anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. 

In addition to being a nutrient powerhouse, water lily seeds are grain free, gluten free, corn free and are packed with plant-based protein.

These puffs also deliver that delicious, crunchy texture without the annoying kernel, making them a great kid-friendly snack!  At Bohana, we use all natural, non-GMO ingredients. Our popped water lily seeds are roasted, never fried. It’s simply just one whole popped seed.

Q: Is it a Lotus Seed? A: No. Lotus vs. Water Lily

Water lily seeds are often mistakenly called lotus seeds. Popped water lily seeds have many different names such as makhana (in Hindi), fox nut, gorgon nut but not lotus seed.  

The major difference between these seeds is that they come from different plants. Whereas water lily seeds belong to the Euryale Ferox plant species and come from the prickly water lily plant grown in the north east of India, lotus seeds comes from an entirely different plant species - Nelumbo Nucifera.

The seeds also hold different cultural significance. Lotus seeds are commonly used in Chinese cooking and as traditional medicine. Water lily seeds have been eaten in India for centuries. They are the most prescribed seeds in Ayurveda, making them the ultimate Ayurvedic superfood. Whether you’re a vata, pitta or kapha, these seeds are beneficial to all body types.

Have questions? We love spreading the love for this special ingredient. Write to us on info@bohanalife.com or reach out on social!