Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called Makhana a superfood and said he consumed fox nuts almost every day due to its health benefits, and stressed that it should be produced on a global scale.

Addressing a rally in Bhagalpur in Bihar, where Assembly polls are due this year, PM Modi said Makhana is an important part of breakfast for people across the country. Before his speech, the Prime Minister was felicitated with garland made of Makhana.

"Makhana has become an important part of breakfast in the cities of the country today. Out of 365 days, I also eat Makhana for 300 days. It is a superfood," he said at the rally.

"The announcement of forming the Makhana Board in Bihar has been made in the Union Budget. Makhana now has to reach the market around the world," he added.

On February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed setting up a Makhana Board in Bihar, aimed at enhancing the production, processing, value addition and marketing of Makhana.

Sitharaman made the announcement as Bihar, which is being ruled by the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) and the BJP, is expected to go to polls in October-November this year.

Bihar is the largest producer of fox nuts in India, contributing 80 per cent of the country’s supply. However, the state has struggled to capitalise on the growing global demand for this superfood.

Makhana is packed with essential nutrients, making it a must-have on a balanced diet.

With its high fibre content, Makhana helps combat inflammation and ageing, regulate blood sugar, improves insulin sensitivity and aids weight management and heart health.