Makhana Grades & Suta Sizes Explained (4 to 6+ Suta)

Quick answerOne suta is ⅛ inch, about 3.2 mm of diameter. We supply makhana from 4 suta (≈ 12.7 mm) to 6+ suta (≥ 19 mm). Bigger pops are rarer and cost more.

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What is a suta?

A suta is the traditional unit for makhana size. One suta is one-eighth of an inch, about 3.2 mm, measured across the diameter of a popped makhana. Traders describe a lot by its suta count: “5 suta” means pops of roughly 15.9 mm.

Makhana size chart

Suta	Diameter	Size	Typical use
4 suta	≈ 12.7 mm	Medium	Kheer, raita, home roasting
5 suta	≈ 15.9 mm	Large	Roasted and flavoured snacks, fasting food, prasad
6+ suta	≥ 19 mm	Jumbo	Premium snacking, gifting, export

Diameters are approximate. Natural makhana varies within each grade; we keep each lot within its stated size.

Our Ma se Makhana grades

Cooking Grade: for everyday cooking, in 100 g and 250 g.
Pooja / Prasad Grade: for sacred offerings, in 100 g and 200 g.
Large Pops Premium Grade: large, select pops, in 250 g.
Bulk Grade: value packs of 500 g, 1 kg and 2 kg.

Export and private label buyers can order any single suta size, or a set size mix, to specification. Export worldwide · Private label services

How we grade

Popped makhana arrives from farmers in Darbhanga and nearby villages.
It is cleaned to remove husk, dust, stones and burnt or broken pieces.
It is sorted by diameter into suta sizes.
Each grade is packed separately, weighed and sealed, so grades never mix.

Frequently asked questions

How many mm is 1 suta?

One suta is one-eighth of an inch, about 3.175 mm, measured across the diameter of a makhana pop. So 4 suta is about 12.7 mm and 6+ suta is 19 mm or more.

Which makhana size is best for snacks?

5 suta and above. Large, even pops roast evenly and hold seasoning well, which is why our roasted and flavoured makhana (coming soon) will use 5 suta and larger.

Which makhana size is best for export?

Export buyers usually ask for 5 suta or 6+ suta. We grade to the buyer’s specification and keep each lot to one size.

Why does bigger makhana cost more?

Only a small share of each harvest pops into large sizes, so 6+ suta makhana is scarcer and priced higher than 4 or 5 suta.

Last updated: 8 November 2026

Makhana grades and suta sizes, explained.