1.   It is common for farmers to find ancient lotus seeds in the region, she said.

2.   Lotus seeds are the shape of tiny footballs and have a tough outer shell that is water- and air-tight, a major factor in their longevity.

3.   Lotus seeds are consumed by the Chinese as a health food.

4.   They bargained for traditional New Year treats, such as sugarcoated lotus seeds and cucumber slices, flowers and decorations.

5.   It is a rich, moist mixture of pastry with a filling of spices, mashed lotus seeds and egg yokes which symbolize the full moon.

6.   The industry blames dearer ingredients such as lotus seeds, beans, wheat flour, sugar and oil.