One of the hallmarks of traditional Hawaiian snack culture is Li Hing Mui powder. This complex powder adds sweet and sour dispositions with a hint of saltiness to any food it adorns. The roots of this flavorful mix, though, come from a storied Hawaiian favorite called crack seed. Here's how this popular snack came to be.

Origins of Crack Seed

The name "Li Hing Mui" suits this Hawaiian-Asian delicacy very appropriately. Meaning "traveling plum" in Chinese, the snack originated as dried, preserved fruits that Chinese immigrants carried with them on their journey across the Pacific Ocean. When they arrived in Hawaii to work on the sugar plantations, immigrant farmers would bring them as a snack while on the job. The preserved seeds also helped to replenish the salt in their bodies during long days in the heat.

Over generations, Li Hing Mui became ingrained as a staple treat for the melting pot of Hawaiian culture. Eventually, it evolved into its other name, "Crack Seed," which refers to the seed in the dried fruit which is cracked open to enhance the overall flavor. Li Hing Mui purists will enjoy the classic plum with a cracked pit, but it requires a bit of tact to eat. The key is to savor it for a while to allow the salt and sugar rehydrate the fruit. Once it's a little softer, then it's time to chew off the meat and abandon the seed. Those uninterested in the effort opt for other varieties like cherry seeds or mangos.

The Legacy of a Hawaiian Favorite

Crack seed now encapsulates any preserved snacks—from dried and fresh fruits to dried seafood like squid and cuttlefish. Their common denominator is the Li Hing Mui powder, made from dried salted plums. Its iconic sweet, sour, salty taste reminds native Hawaiians of their childhood sifting through the dozens of glass jars filled with these treats at Mom and Pop shops. The powder, which can be bought as its own isolated product, is dusted on everything—tropical fruits, popcorn, even gummy bears for an intricate mix of sweet and savory.

Whether you're taken by nostalgia or want to try this unique Hawaiian delicacy for the first time, Lin's Hawaiian Snacks has a wide range of delicious crack seeds, candies, and dried fruits. Family-owned and -operated for more than 30 years, this specialty store takes to heart their mission of "Serving Aloha Daily." In their inventory, Li Hing is king, from the classic preserved plums to the crowd favorite strawberry or lychee sour belts. To get a taste of this island delicacy, visit their website or call today to order your own Li Hing Mui.