AshaPops are popped water lily seeds, also known as makhana. The seeds come from Euryale ferox, an aquatic plant grown in ponds across Bihar, India. They are roasted, never fried: the seeds are dry-roasted at high heat until they pop. A 1 oz bag contains 120 calories, with no added sugar and no seed oils. The line is Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified OU Kosher, and comes in four flavors. Read more about water lily seeds and why AshaPops are such a great snack.
What Are AshaPops?
AshaPops are a snack made from water lily seeds, which grow on an aquatic plant found in ponds and lakes across India and other parts of Asia. AshaPops dry-roasts the seeds at high heat until they pop, which produces a crisp, crunchy puff with a texture similar to popcorn. The seeds are roasted, never fried.
Makhana comes from Euryale ferox, a plant in the water lily family. It is not the same as the lotus seed, which comes from Nelumbo nucifera, a different plant.
The product launched in 2019 and is now sold in natural food stores and online retailers across the United States. AshaPops are made in Los Angeles from makhana sourced in Bihar, India. Browse the complete product collection for all available flavors, or read the company story behind the brand.
What Is In the Bag
Each bag contains popped water lily seeds, oil, and seasoning. Depending on the flavor, products use extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. No canola, sunflower, or other seed oils.
Other facts from the label:
- No added sugar
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
- Grain-free and gluten-free
- Non-GMO Project Verified
- Certified OU Kosher
- Made in Los Angeles from makhana sourced in Bihar, India
What the Label Says
A 1 oz bag contains 120 calories. A 0.5 oz lunchbox bag contains 60 calories.
Nutritional data is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical, dietary, or health advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making dietary changes.
The Four Flavors
- Himalayan Pink Salt: a simple salted flavor.
- Vegan Cheese: nutritional yeast gives a savory, umami flavor without dairy.
- Turmeric Garlic: turmeric adds warmth and color, garlic adds a savory note.
- Chili: a spicy chili seasoning.
Read more about popped water lily seeds.
Allergen Information
AshaPops contains no tree nuts, peanuts, gluten, or grain. Individuals with food allergies should consult their healthcare provider before consuming. For more detail, read about water lily seed safety.
Makhana in Indian Tradition
Makhana has long been eaten in India, where the seeds are harvested from ponds and roasted. In Ayurveda, makhana is classified as sattvic and is traditionally eaten during fasting periods. Read the AshaPops story for how the brand began.
What Research Has Looked At
Peer-reviewed studies have explored makhana's nutritional properties, including its fiber content and antioxidant compounds.
Nutritional data is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical, dietary, or health advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making dietary changes.
Ways to Eat AshaPops
Salad topping: adds crunch, and works in place of croutons for a gluten-free option. Himalayan Pink Salt and Turmeric Garlic both work well.
Soup garnish: adds texture on top of a bowl. Try Chili for a spicy kick.
Trail mix component: combines with nuts and dried fruit. Any flavor works, so shop all flavors.
Keep Reading
AshaPops also publishes a roundup of snack options with their calorie counts. To try the flavors, browse the full collection, or read more about why AshaPops are such a great snack.
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