In traditional Jain practice, milk, butter, and cheese are generally allowed. Many Jains eat dairy products.

However, some very strict Jains may avoid or minimize dairy today, because modern dairy production can involve himsā and cruelty. So practice can vary by family, sect, and personal vow.

Why cheese/butter are served in “Jain food”

Because in many places, “Jain food” means food made without root vegetables like onion, garlic, potato, carrot, etc. It does not always mean dairy-free.

So restaurants often serve:

• paneer
• butter
• cheese
• milk
• curd

as part of Jain-style food.

Simple rule

• Traditional Jain diet: dairy is usually permitted
• Strict modern vow-based practice: some Jains may avoid dairy

So if you see cheese in Jain food, it is usually because that style of food is “Jain” by vegetable rules, not by being vegan.

If you want, I can also explain which foods are usually avoided in Jainism in a simple list.