India’s food safety regulator, FSSAI, has prohibited the use of Ashwagandha leaves ( (Withania somnifera) in any form—crude or extract—in food products. Under existing 2016 regulations, only Ashwagandha roots and their extracts are permitted in health supplements and related categories.
The authority noted instances of manufacturers using the leaves and clarified that such usage is not allowed. The ministry of ayush has reinforced this directive, instructing producers to limit usage strictly to the roots. FSSAI has warned that non-compliance will invite action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and has directed state authorities to ensure strict enforcement.
FSSAI asked its commissioners of food safety of all states/UTs and regional directors to direct the concerned licensing authorities and food safety officers to maintain strict vigilance and ensure compliance with the above provisions.
The authority said the ministry of ayush had asked ayush drug and product manufacturers to use only Ashwagandha roots and their extracts and not the leaves, in any form.
The ministry noted that available scientific studies ‘have reported possible safety concerns for Ashwagandha leaves due to higher concentrations of reactive withanolides, particularly Withaferin-A.’
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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