India is the world’s biggest consumer of areca nuts. In India, particularly in southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Assam, the areca nut is also known as a betel nut. It is an important cultural and economic component. Particularly in rural areas, chewing the nut with betel leaves and other components is a major part of everyday life.
Traditional chewing mixes, like paan, combine betel leaf, areca nuts, and other ingredients. It is also a component of regional cooking and Ayurvedic products. India produces a significant portion of areca nuts, serving as the sole source of income for many small farmers. The country also consumes a significant amount of areca nuts.
