The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush, has unveiled a comprehensive list of Ayurvedic food preparations classified under “Ayurveda Aahara” as part of the Food Safety and Standards (Ayurveda Aahara) Regulations, 2022. This landmark initiative integrates India’s ancient dietary wisdom into modern regulatory frameworks, offering clarity to consumers and Food Business Operators (FBOs) while promoting the adoption of traditional Ayurvedic nutrition for enhanced public health.
The list, rooted in classical Ayurvedic texts outlined in Schedule A, ensures the authenticity of these food formulations, which are crafted using time-honored recipes, ingredients, and processes. It serves as a credible reference for FBOs manufacturing Ayurveda Aahara products and allows for future additions through a defined process, where requests for new Category A products must be supported by references from authoritative texts. Updates to the list will be notified by the FSSAI.
Union Minister of State for Ayush and Health & Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, emphasized the health benefits of incorporating Ayurveda Aahara into daily diets. He described these practices as a blend of nutrition, balance, and tradition that strengthens immunity, supports digestion, and promotes overall well-being. “In today’s fast-paced world, adopting Ayurveda Aahara is a meaningful step toward preventive healthcare and sustainable living,” he said.
Ayurveda Aahara reflects India’s rich food culture, rooted in one of the world’s oldest holistic health systems. These products emphasize natural ingredients, seasonal suitability, and therapeutic herbs to foster balance and wellness.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, called the release a pivotal step in harmonizing traditional knowledge with modern regulations. “This initiative empowers FBOs with clarity and strengthens consumer trust in Ayurveda-based nutrition,” he said.
Prof. Sanjeev Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of the National Institute of Ayurveda, described the Ayush Aahara Compendium as a significant milestone in mainstreaming classical Ayurvedic formulations. Developed under the Ministry of Ayush’s guidance, the compendium curates scientifically validated formulations from authoritative texts, serving as a guiding resource for manufacturers and enabling public access to safe, authentic dietary solutions.
