New Delhi: October 16:
As the world celebrates World Food Day 2025 with the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” the Ministry of Ayush reiterates India’s commitment to a healthier, more sustainable planet. This is demonstrated through groundbreaking initiatives like ‘Ayurveda Aahara’ — India’s unique food philosophy rooted in balance, wellness, and nature.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in consultation with the Ministry of Ayush, has recently released a definitive list of Ayurveda Aahara products under Category A. This step provides the first comprehensive reference framework for authentic Ayurvedic dietary preparations. The list, based on authoritative classical texts, is expected to boost growth, quality, and global confidence in Ayurveda-based nutrition.
Union Minister of State (IC) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, emphasised the importance of Ayurveda Aahara. He said, “This year’s World Food Day theme matches India’s traditional wisdom. Ayurveda Aahara is not just food—it is a philosophy that connects health, sustainability, and care for nature. With FSSAI, we are working to make Ayurveda Aahara a key part of global nutrition. We want better foods to create a healthier, disease-free future.”
The Ayurveda Aahara regulations, notified by FSSAI, are setting new benchmarks. They integrate India’s traditional health wisdom with modern food safety standards. The release of the definitive product list ensures consumers and food businesses have clear, validated references. These are rooted in classical Ayurvedic knowledge.
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, noted, “The growing global interest in Ayurveda-based food systems underscores India’s critical contribution to holistic nutrition. The Ayurveda Aahara framework, strengthened by the definitive list, brings clarity to manufacturers and trust to consumers. We see this as a major boost for startups and innovation in the health food sector. Ayurveda’s wisdom can help break the rising trend of diet- and lifestyle-related disorders that lead to non-communicable diseases.”
Talking about the scientific and educational dimension, Professor Anupam Srivastava of the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur, said, “By integrating Ayurvedic dietary principles into mainstream nutrition policy, India is showing the world how traditional knowledge can guide sustainable and mindful eating practices. The collaboration between Ayush and FSSAI exemplifies working ‘hand in hand’ for better foods and a better future.”
India’s traditional food systems — epitomised by the diverse and balanced Indian Thali — are being globally recognised for nutritional and environmental sustainability. By drawing from Ayurveda’s time-tested dietary wisdom, these food models emphasise seasonal eating, local sourcing, and mindful consumption. This aligns perfectly with the global call for sustainable food systems.
As the world moves toward redefining its relationship with food, India stands as a beacon of balance. The country demonstrates how traditional knowledge and modern science can coexist to build resilient, healthy societies. The Ministry of Ayush remains steadfast in its mission. Through continued collaboration with FSSAI and other stakeholders, it aims to make Ayurveda Aahara synonymous with nourishment, sustainability, and global well-being.
