What shall we not eat

In Jainism, followers are guided by the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), which deeply influences dietary practices. Jains strive to avoid causing harm to any living beings, including even the smallest forms of life. Therefore, Jains traditionally observe the following dietary restrictions:

1. No Meat, Fish, or Eggs: All forms of animal flesh and eggs are strictly avoided, as consuming them involves violence towards living beings.

1. No Root Vegetables: Vegetables like potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, radishes, beets, and other root crops are avoided because uprooting them kills the entire plant and disturbs many micro-organisms in the soil.

1. No Honey: Honey is avoided because it is taken from bees, causing harm and destruction to many small life forms.

1. No Fermented Foods or Alcohol: Foods and drinks that involve fermentation (such as alcohol, certain vinegars, some cheeses, etc.) are avoided, as fermentation processes involve the creation and destruction of numerous micro-organisms.

1. No Foods after Sunset: Many Jains avoid eating after sunset to prevent accidental harm to small insects that may be present in the dark.

1. No Green Leafy Vegetables during Paryushan: During the holy period of Paryushan, Jains further restrict their diet by avoiding green leafy vegetables.

Jainism encourages a sattvic (pure, non-violent, and simple) vegetarian diet, emphasizing compassion and mindfulness in eating habits.