Answer

No, not all Jains are strictly vegetarian, but vegetarianism is a very strong and common part of Jain tradition.

Explanation

Jain Dharma strongly teaches ahimsa — non-violence. Because of this, most Jains follow a vegetarian diet, and many also avoid root vegetables like onion, garlic, potato, and similar foods.

However, in practice:

• Some Jains follow the tradition very strictly
• Some may follow it more partially
• A person may identify as Jain even if their food habits are not fully traditional

Spiritual Understanding

In Jainism, food is not only about diet — it is connected to compassion, discipline, and reducing harm to living beings. Vegetarianism is considered an important expression of ahimsa.

Takeaway

A more accurate statement would be: Most Jains are vegetarian, because vegetarianism is a core Jain value.