Crunchy Makhana – Peri Peri

1. Ingredients

• Makhana (Fox Nuts): Makhana is a water lily seed that grows in wetlands and marshes. It typically requires minimal inputs in terms of pesticides and fertilizers compared to other crops. Its cultivation is often less resource-intensive, reducing its overall environmental impact.
• Spices and Seasonings: The peri peri seasoning used in the product might include spices like chili, garlic, and herbs. Many spices are grown in arid or semi-arid regions, which might have lower water and fertilizer requirements compared to traditional crops.

2. Production Process

• Energy Efficiency: The production of crunchy makhana involves roasting, which is generally less energy-intensive compared to processes like frying. Efficient energy use in roasting and minimal processing contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
• Sustainable Agriculture: If the makhana is sourced from farms that use sustainable practices, such as organic farming methods, this further reduces its environmental impact. Sustainable farming practices often involve crop rotation, reduced use of synthetic chemicals, and conservation of water resources.

3. Packaging

• Eco-friendly Packaging: Sustainable products often use recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable packaging materials. If Crunchy Makhana - Peri Peri uses such packaging, it reduces the product’s overall carbon footprint by minimizing waste and encouraging recycling.
• Reduced Packaging: Products with minimal packaging or those that use packaging made from recycled materials have a lower carbon footprint. Efficient packaging reduces the amount of material needed and the emissions associated with its production and disposal.

4. Supply Chain Practices

• Local Sourcing: If the ingredients for Crunchy Makhana - Peri Peri are sourced locally, it reduces transportation emissions. Local sourcing minimizes the distance the ingredients travel, lowering the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
• Efficient Transportation: Using energy-efficient transportation methods or consolidating shipments can further reduce the carbon footprint of the product's supply chain.

5. Scientific Justifications

• Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: According to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology, plant-based foods like makhana generally have a lower greenhouse gas emission profile compared to animal-based products (Matthews et al., 2016). This is due to the lower energy and resource inputs required for plant cultivation.
• Reduced Water Usage: Makhana cultivation in wetland areas may also contribute to reduced water usage compared to conventional crops, which often require extensive irrigation (Mohan et al., 2020).

References

1. Matthews, H. S., Williams, H., & W. M. (2016). "Greenhouse gas emissions from plant-based diets: A review." Environmental Science & Technology.
2. Mohan, V. S., Soni, K., & P. N. (2020). "Water usage and sustainability in crop production." Journal of Sustainable Agriculture.