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The country's food regulatory body Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken an important decision. FSSAI has issued an important advisory saying that now Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) leaves cannot be used in any food product, supplement or nutraceutical.
According to FSSAI, as per pre-determined rules, only Ashwagandha root and its extract are allowed to be used in food items. But recently, information about some companies using its leaves also came to light, after which this strict step has been taken.
FSSAI has also made it clear in its order that it will be against the rules to include Ashwagandha leaves in any form, whether raw or extracted, in food products. FSSAI has warned all food business operators that if this rule is violated, action will be taken against them under the Food Safety Act 2006.
FSSAI issues an advisory regarding the use of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in food products. Per the 2016 Regulations, only Ashwagandha roots and their extracts are permitted for use in health supplements and nutraceuticals. pic.twitter.com/h7U4QQREVG
— ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2026
Along with this, food safety officers of states and union territories have also been instructed to strictly follow this rule and take immediate action on any irregularities. FSSAI reiterated that consumer safety is paramount and the objective of this strictness is to ensure the quality and reliability of Ashwagandha products available in the market.
In fact, in the recent past, the demand for Ashwagandha based products like herbal tea, protein powder, nutrition drinks and other wellness supplements has increased rapidly in the market. Due to this, some companies were ignoring the rules and using Ashwagandha leaves and their extracts, which is against the food safety standards.
FSSAI clarified that under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations 2016, there are clear guidelines for the use of Ashwagandha, according to which only the root and its extract can be used in prescribed quantities. The AYUSH Ministry has also taken a tough stance in this matter. The Ministry has instructed companies manufacturing Ayurvedic medicines and products to avoid using Ashwagandha leaves.
