Suta is a traditional way of describing the diameter of popped makhana. A size grade can help you compare products, but it is only one piece of information. It does not tell you the complete recipe, nutrition, pack weight or condition of the food you will receive.
What does a suta number mean?
An ISEC field-research brief describes one suta as approximately 3.175 millimetres. Its grading table uses ranges, including half-suta bands. Read that as a description of the system studied, rather than a promise that every puff in a packet has one exact diameter. ISEC Policy Brief 70
Why do different size charts disagree?
APEDA's 2025 makhana dashboard gives these commercial bands:
| Grade in the dashboard | Diameter band |
|---|---|
| 4 suta | 12–15 mm |
| 5 suta | 15–18 mm |
| 6 suta | 18–21 mm |
Source: APEDA dashboard, PDF page 8.
APEDA uses whole-number bands; ISEC lists finer intervals. Our reading: a grade label and a calculated diameter are different descriptions. Ask which millimetre range and measurement method the seller uses.
If a seller uses a “plus” grade or a mixed-size description, ask what it includes. A photograph beside a ruler can illustrate the product, but one pictured piece does not establish the size distribution of an entire packet or shipment.
What should you ask before buying?
Use a short, specific checklist:
- What size range is supplied? Ask for the minimum and maximum diameter in millimetres, including any allowed pieces outside that range.
- How is the grade checked? Ask whether the specification refers to a sieve opening, a measured diameter or another method.
- Is the batch mixed? Ask how many smaller pieces or broken puffs may be included and how that allowance is assessed.
- How much food is included? Compare net grams and price for the same preparation and seasoning, rather than the apparent volume of the bag.
- What happens if it differs? Keep the written description and confirm how the seller handles a product that does not match it.
These are practical buying questions, not a claim that every seller follows the same inspection procedure. For a larger purchase, request a representative sample and agree the specification before ordering.
Does an official makhana standard exist?
Yes: BIS lists IS 3155:1965, Specification for makhanna products. Its existence should not be confused with proof that every commercial suta chart is a universal certification system. We have not established a current mandatory suta classification or certification for any Namaste Makhana pack. BIS standard listing
Does larger mean more nutritious?
A diameter measurement does not establish a nutrient amount. Use the finished product's ingredient list and nutrition panel for that comparison; neither a large puff nor a premium-sounding grade supplies the missing evidence.
Namaste Makhana has not published a measured suta specification. Our catalogue confirms pack sizes, flavours and prices; packaging images are concepts. We will describe our own grading only when there is a documented specification to support it.