Context:

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. This initiative aims to standardize traditional Ayurvedic dietary formulations within the framework of modern food safety regulations.

What is Ayurveda Aahara?

Ayurveda Aahara refers to food products prepared in accordance with the dietary principles of Ayurveda. These foods emphasize balance, seasonality, and the use of natural, therapeutic ingredients to promote holistic health and wellness.

Launched By:

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
• Ministry of Ayush
• Under the Food Safety and Standards (Ayurveda Aahara) Regulations, 2022

Objectives:

• To integrate traditional Ayurvedic dietary knowledge into the mainstream.
• To offer regulatory clarity for Food Business Operators (FBOs).
• To promote Ayurveda-based nutrition as a tool for preventive healthcare and wellness.

Key Features:

• Textual Validation for Authenticity:
  The definitive list draws from classical Ayurvedic texts listed in Schedule A, ensuring authenticity and adherence to traditional knowledge.
• Clear Guidance for Food Businesses:
  FBOs now have a standardized reference to formulate and market Ayurveda Aahara products within a defined legal framework.
• Public Health Orientation:
  Encourages dietary practices known to enhance digestion, immunity, and overall well-being, based on centuries-old Ayurvedic wisdom.
• Mechanism for New Product Inclusion:
  FBOs can propose new products for inclusion in the list by submitting references from classical Ayurvedic literature.
• Expert Validation by NIA:
  The National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) serves as the nodal body for evaluating and validating the formulations, ensuring both traditional integrity and scientific rigor.

Significance:

• Bridging Tradition and Regulation:
  Aligns India's ancient food wisdom with modern food safety laws, fostering consumer trust and regulatory legitimacy.
• Empowering the Ayurveda Food Sector:
  Eases regulatory barriers for startups and FBOs, encouraging innovation in Ayurveda-based food products.
• Promoting Preventive Healthcare:
  Reinforces the adoption of natural, seasonal, and herbal dietary practices to support sustainable and balanced living.

Source: PIB