List common daily staples
Here are common daily staples in a traditional Jain pantry and kitchen (kept simple, satvik, and mindful of ahimsa). Note on traditions: Digambar and Shwetambar communities may have small differences in what is preferred on certain days or during certain months, but the core idea remains the same—avoid harm to living beings, especially roots.
- Grains and millets
- Pulses and lentils
- Vegetables (non-root, year-round and seasonal)
- Fruits, nuts, and seeds
- Dairy (optional per tradition)
- Oils and fats
- Spices and seasonings
- Other pantry items
Key upos or rules to keep in mind
- Do not eat meat, fish, eggs, honey, or intoxicants.
- Avoid root and underground vegetables (potato, onion, garlic, carrot, beetroot, turnip, etc.) in most Jain households; stricter practices can vary by guru or sangh.
- Eat fresh, avoid leftovers, and try to eat in daylight when possible.
- Water is typically filtered or boiled; some traditions sip water in daylight only.