India’s Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Regulation
In a landmark move, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush, has released a definitive list of Ayurveda Aahara products under Category A.
This release, dated August 2, 2025, aligns with the Food Safety and Standards (Ayurveda Aahara) Regulations, 2022, and integrates India’s time-tested food wisdom into a structured regulatory framework.
What Is Ayurveda Aahara?
Ayurveda Aahara refers to food products developed in accordance with the dietary principles laid out in classical Ayurvedic texts. These foods are designed to support preventive healthcare, boost immunity, and promote digestive wellness.
They are based on natural ingredients, seasonal compatibility, and the balance of bodily doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha — as prescribed in Ayurveda.
The newly released list includes products rooted in authoritative Ayurvedic texts listed in Schedule A. These include traditional preparations like:
- Chyawanprash
- Triphala Rasayana
- Draksha Avaleha
- Ashwagandhadi Lehyam
- Dashmool Haritaki
The list is notified under Note (1) of Schedule B of the Ayurveda Aahara regulations. It ensures both authenticity and compliance for Food Business Operators (FBOs).
Why This Matters
Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav urged citizens to include Ayurveda Aahara in their lifestyle. He described it as a “meaningful step toward preventive healthcare and a balanced, sustainable way of living.”
He also highlighted how these time-tested dietary practices strengthen immunity and aid digestion, making them perfect for today’s fast-paced life.
Clarity for Food Business Operators
According to Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, the initiative gives FBOs the clarity they’ve long needed. “It strengthens consumer trust in Ayurveda-based nutrition,” he said.
FBOs can also request the inclusion of new products not yet listed, provided they cite classical references from Schedule A. Future updates will be publicly notified.
Scientific Validation by NIA
Prof. Sanjeev Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), called this development historic. The NIA has compiled the Ayush Aahara Compendium — a guiding document that scientifically validates traditional food formulations.
This compendium, curated under the Ministry of Ayush’s guidance, ensures safe and authentic access to Ayurvedic nutrition.
Government’s Push for Ayurveda and Sustainability
At the World Food India 2023 inauguration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s food traditions: “Our ancestors linked Ayurveda with daily food habits. Ayurveda Aahara now has the potential to go global, just like Yoga and Millets.”
Indeed, Ayurveda Aahara is a fusion of holistic nutrition, cultural heritage, and scientific validation.
What’s Next for Consumers and Industry?
This list is not just a regulatory tool — it’s a cultural milestone. It makes it easier for consumers to choose safe, verified Ayurvedic foods. At the same time, it simplifies compliance for the industry.
The movement towards sustainable, health-driven nutrition continues to grow. Ayurveda Aahara stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, offering a reliable path forward for health-conscious consumers.
Accessing the Ayurveda Aahara List
The complete Category A list can be accessed through the official FSSAI portal. Businesses and consumers are encouraged to review and understand this important document.
Key Benefits:
- Enhances consumer trust in Ayurvedic food products
- Offers clarity and direction to manufacturers and food businesses
- Promotes preventive healthcare and sustainable eating
- Brings traditional Indian nutrition into global focus
Conclusion
With this bold step, India is bridging the gap between its rich heritage and modern health needs. Ayurveda Aahara is no longer just a concept from ancient texts — it’s now a regulated, accessible, and trusted nutritional choice.
Consumers, policymakers, and businesses can now come together to embrace a system that offers more than nourishment — it offers wellness, rooted in wisdom.