In many places across Nepal this is the standard way of carrying because of the geographical layout of the land. I have seen young girls and old ladies struggling under heavy bags of rice which would put young strong men in the Western world to shame. 

Having no access to freezers or fridges all of the food is made by hand, every day a new variety and always fresh.

One of the worse jobs in Nepal to have to do, its hard on the fingers, wrists, hands and so, so boring but its has to done.