New Delhi: In a significant move to integrate traditional Indian food wisdom with modern regulatory practices, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush, has released a definitive list of Category A “Ayurveda Aahara” products. This initiative is expected to revolutionise India’s preventive healthcare ecosystem and enhance clarity for stakeholders in the food and wellness industries.
Ayurveda Aahara Products Backed by Classical Texts
The released list is based on formulations mentioned in authoritative Ayurvedic texts listed under Schedule A of the Food Safety and Standards (Ayurveda Aahara) Regulations, 2022. The list, published under Note (1) of Schedule B, brings clarity and confidence for Food Business Operators (FBOs), ensuring that all products under this category adhere to time-tested Ayurvedic dietary principles.
These formulations are designed in accordance with India’s ancient health system, promoting balance, immunity, digestion, and overall well-being through natural, seasonally suitable, and holistic ingredients.
Provisions for Future Inclusions
To allow for the expansion of the list, FSSAI has introduced a formal process for FBOs to submit requests for additional Category A products, provided they are supported by valid references from the classical texts listed in Schedule A. All such future additions will be notified by the Food Authority, ensuring transparency and continued adherence to Ayurvedic principles.
A Step Towards Mainstreaming Traditional Nutrition
Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State (IC) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, emphasized the importance of incorporating Ayurveda Aahara into everyday life. “In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, adopting Ayurveda Aahara is a meaningful step toward preventive healthcare and a balanced, sustainable way of living,” he stated.
He added that Ayurveda Aahara, grounded in traditional Indian knowledge, can significantly improve immunity, support digestion, and provide long-term health benefits.
Strengthening Consumer Confidence in Ayurvedic Nutrition
Shri Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, described the release of the list as a pivotal step in aligning India’s rich knowledge systems with modern food regulations. “This initiative not only empowers Food Business Operators with much-needed clarity but also strengthens consumer trust in Ayurveda-based nutrition,” he remarked.
Scholarly Validation and Regulatory Alignment
Prof. Sanjeev Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of the National Institute of Ayurveda, which acted as the nodal agency in preparing the list, noted that the Ayush Aahara Compendium was developed through careful curation and textual validation of classical Ayurvedic food formulations. “This effort will serve as a guiding document for food manufacturers and help the public access safe, authentic, and time-tested dietary solutions rooted in Ayurveda,” he said.
Prime Minister’s Endorsement of Ayurveda-Based Food Culture
During the World Food India inauguration in November 2023, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had highlighted the role of Ayurveda in shaping India’s food legacy. “India’s sustainable food culture is the result of a journey of thousands of years. Our ancestors linked Ayurveda with the food habits of the common people. Just as International Yoga Day popularised yoga globally, millets and Ayurveda Aahara will now reach every corner of the world,” he said.
What is Ayurveda Aahara?
Ayurveda Aahara refers to food products developed in line with holistic Ayurvedic dietary principles, known for promoting harmony between the body, mind, and nature. These foods are not only therapeutic but also seasonal, sustainable, and balanced, often made using herbs and ingredients with proven health benefits.
Bridging Tradition with Modern Public Health Goals
The release of this list is seen as a turning point in making Ayurveda-based nutrition more accessible, regulated, and widely adopted. It empowers both businesses and consumers by ensuring that products are authentic, safe, and beneficial, thereby fostering public trust and promoting better health outcomes.
Source: PIB
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
