In Jainism, fruits used in worship (fal/phal) have a symbolic role, not a feeding or “pleasing God” role.

1. What fruit represents in puja

In Ashta‑prakari / Ashta‑dravya puja, phal (fruit) is one of the eight offerings. Its inner meaning is:

• Fruit = “Result” (phala)

It reminds us of the highest result we should seek: - not money, success, or health - but the fruit of moksha – complete freedom from karma and rebirth. ( jainknowledge.com)

• When you offer fruit, the inner prayer is:

“May I attain the true fruit – liberation, not worldly rewards.” ( jainknowledge.com)

2. Why Jains still offer fruit if Tirthankars don’t need it

• Tirthankars are liberated souls; they do not eat, feel hunger, or need anything.
• The offering is done for our own spiritual training, to develop:

- humility - non‑attachment to tasty and beautiful things - generosity (dān), giving up what we like. ( jainknowledge.com)

So the real worship is in your bhāv (inner feeling):

• “I detach from material fruits and aim only for spiritual fruit.”

3. Practice points (Digambar & Shvetambar)

• Both Digambar and Shvetambar mūrti‑pūjak traditions include fruit in the usual list of eight offerings, though exact items and style can vary by temple. ( jainknowledge.com)
• Many teachers remind:

- Do not treat offered fruit as “prasād” like in other religions. - Offer gently, without himsā (violence) or waste. ( jainknowledge.com)

In short: The role of fruit in Jain worship is to remind the devotee to seek only one ultimate fruit – moksha – and to reduce attachment to all other fruits of life.

You can read more about Ashta‑prakari puja and the meaning of phal here: