Jain Diet (Satvik Aahar) - Jain way of life

Jain dietary rules are among the most detailed in the world. Jains follow a strictly lacto-vegetarian diet and avoid root vegetables (potatoes, onions, garlic) because uprooting them kills the entire plant and many microorganisms. Eating after sunset is avoided as insects are attracted to food and light. Green leafy vegetables are checked for insects, and filtered water is used.

The Jain diet is rooted in Ahimsa (non-violence). Every food choice is guided by minimising harm to all living beings, even the smallest organisms.

Also called

सात्विक आहार

Kind of practice

Way Of Life

Difficulty

Beginner

When

Anytime

Suitable for

All

How it is done

1. Avoid all meat, fish, eggs, and animal-derived products (except dairy).

2. Do not consume root vegetables — potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, radish, beetroot.

3. Avoid eating after sunset (Ratri Bhojan Tyag) to prevent harm to nocturnal insects.

4. Filter all drinking water through a cloth to avoid harming micro-organisms.

5. Avoid multi-day old food, fermented items, and honey.

6. During monsoon (Paryushan), avoid green vegetables entirely.

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