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🇳🇵 Nepal /Health & Science

Satu makes a comeback as a healthy urban snack

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Satu, a traditional Nepali roasted grain snack, is experiencing a resurgence in urban areas as a healthy alternative to processed foods.
  • Demand for satu has grown since the COVID-19 pandemic, with producers offering special varieties mixed with dry fruits.
  • Businesses selling satu are expanding, reaching overseas markets and catering to a growing health-conscious consumer base.

Satu, a nutritious traditional Nepali snack made from roasted maize, soybeans, chickpeas, and barley, is making a comeback in urban centers. Once a staple, especially for children and the elderly in rural areas, satu lost popularity with the rise of fast-moving consumer goods. However, a growing health consciousness, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, has spurred demand for healthier dietary options.

It is not good to give children biscuits all the time. I usually give them satu as a snack.

— Durga BaralA Kathmandu resident explaining why she chooses satu for her daughters.

Producers are now offering a wider variety of satu, including special blends mixed with dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and walnuts. Businesses like Dhikijanto Pvt Ltd in Kathmandu are not only seeing increased sales within Nepal but are also exporting to countries like Australia and New Zealand. Dhikijanto sells between 300 to 400 kilograms of satu monthly, with one organization placing a bulk order of 2,000 kilograms for children's nutrition.

We buy satu from a farmhouse. We can see them making it right in front of us. That makes us trust the product, so we buy and eat it from there.

— Durga BaralA Kathmandu resident explaining her trust in the product's origin and preparation.

Another established seller, "Kainla Dai Ko Satu," has been in the business for six years, adapting to the growing demand. These businesses source grains from various districts, including Mustang, Rasuwa, Jumla, Mugu, and Dolpa, highlighting the traditional food's connection to Nepal's agricultural heartland. The resurgence of satu reflects a broader trend of consumers seeking natural, wholesome foods in response to modern dietary habits.

Nowadays, mixed and special varieties of satu are popular among customers. The special satu contains dry fruits such as almonds, cashews and walnuts as well.

— Asbin SapkotaAn engineer running a retail store selling traditional foods, describing popular satu varieties.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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