In a major regulatory move, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has ordered a halt to the use of Ashwagandha leaves and their extracts in food and wellness products, citing safety concerns flagged by the Ministry of AYUSH.
The regulator clarified that only Ashwagandha roots and root extracts are permitted for use in approved food categories. State authorities have been directed to take strict action against non-compliance.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), a widely used Ayurvedic herb known for stress relief, muscle recovery, and cognitive support, remains allowed—but strictly limited to its root form in food applications.
📊 Industry Impact
This decision is expected to significantly impact India’s rapidly growing nutraceutical sector:
- 💰 Industry size: $38.77 billion
- 🌿 Ashwagandha market: projected $928.5 million by 2026
Since Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in wellness supplements, the restriction may force manufacturers to reformulate products and reassess ingredient sourcing.
⚠️ Why This Matters
- Addresses potential health risks linked to leaf usage
- Brings regulatory clarity for herbal ingredients
- Strengthens consumer safety standards in nutraceuticals
India is tightening control over herbal ingredients in food products. While Ashwagandha remains widely accepted, its use is now strictly limited to roots, marking a significant shift for the wellness industry.
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