In Jain Dharma, food intake should stop at sunset. This is the standard layperson’s vow of “Ratri-bhojan tyag” (no eating at night).

Best practice taught by many Acharyas: finish eating at least one muhurta (about 48 minutes) before sunset so that eating is done fully in daylight, avoiding inadvertent himsa and aiding discipline.

Traditions:

• Shvetambar: No eating after sunset; completing the meal one muhurta before sunset is advised.
• Digambar: Same core rule; monks eat only in daylight and laypeople are guided to complete meals before sunset, ideally a muhurta earlier.

Notes:

• Water and beverages: Traditionally, avoid intake after sunset. If there is a genuine medical need, only previously boiled and well-filtered water may be sipped as per guidance from your Acharya or local Sangh.
• Monks and nuns must always complete alms and eating before sunset.

Purpose: Eating in daylight helps prevent harm to tiny beings and supports ahimsa, saiyam (self-restraint), and better digestion.