Jains do not eat eggs because Jainism teaches the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) toward all living beings. Eggs are considered to contain life or the potential for life, and consuming them is seen as an act of violence (himsa) against living beings.

Jain dietary rules are very strict and aim to minimize harm to any form of life. Jains avoid not only meat and eggs, but also root vegetables and certain other foods that may involve killing or harming even the smallest organisms. This commitment to non-violence is a core aspect of Jain philosophy and daily practice.