Understanding the Traditional 'Suta' Measurement System
In the historic trading markets of Darbhanga, wholesale makhana has been calibrated for centuries using the Suta scale—an indigenous unit of measure corresponding to 1/8th of an inch (approximately 3.175mm). In modern industrial food processing, this translates to precise millimeter sieving.
Commercial Suta Grade Classification
| Grade Nomenclature | Diameter Range | Visual Appearance | Primary Commercial Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 7+ Suta Super Jumbo | 24mm+ | Colossal snow-white spheres with immaculate puffing and zero blemishes. | Ultra-luxury gifting, royal festive hampers, flagship export lines. |
| Grade 6+ Suta Lava Jumbo | 20mm – 23mm | Extremely large, pristine white puffs with dense, uniform crunch. | Premium retail pouches, gourmet flavored roasting, direct consumer snack packs. |
| Grade 5+ Suta Commercial Standard | 17mm – 19mm | Uniform, medium-large kernels with high structural integrity. | Industrial flavor tumbling, institutional supply, everyday household consumption. |
| Grade 4+ Suta Handi / Mix | 13mm – 16mm | Smaller, crunchier kernels with occasional light natural speckling. | Makhana Kheer, ground makhana flour (atta), curry preparations, restaurant catering. |
Standard Physical & Chemical Quality Parameters
- Moisture Content: Max 7.0% (Karl Fischer / Hot Air Oven method).
- Total Ash: Max 0.5%.
- Hard Seed Shell Defect: Less than 1.0% by weight.
- Shelf Life: 12 Months under standard dry ambient storage conditions.