एफएसएसएआई ने न्यूट्रास्यूटिकल्स में अश्वगंधा के उपयोग पर परामर्श जारी किया

Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an advisory on the use of Ashwagandha in nutraceuticals, emphasizing regulatory measures to ensure safety. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 2, focusing on governance and health safety. Last Updated: 21-04-2026

Key Facts About FSSAI's Advisory on Ashwagandha

• The advisory was issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
• Under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations 2016, only specific plant parts are permitted in health supplements.
• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is recognized for its immunity-enhancing properties.
• Only roots and their extracts of Ashwagandha are permitted; leaves and their extracts are prohibited.
• Higher levels of withanolides in leaves may pose safety concerns.
• The Ministry of AYUSH has directed manufacturers to avoid using leaves.
• FSSAI is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
• FSSAI's headquarters is located in Delhi.

India's Nutraceutical Regulation Landscape

The advisory on Ashwagandha is part of India's broader strategy to regulate the nutraceutical industry, ensuring consumer safety and product efficacy. This aligns with India's goals to enhance public health standards and strengthen regulatory frameworks, contributing to economic growth and international competitiveness in the health sector.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, transparency, and accountability in health-related regulations.
• Prelims: Potential questions on FSSAI's role, Ashwagandha's properties, and regulatory provisions.
• Mains: Analytical themes on the impact of regulatory measures on public health and industry standards.
• Essay Paper: Topics on health safety regulations and their socio-economic impact.

FAQ Section

• What is Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a medicinal herb known for its stress-relieving and immunity-boosting properties, widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.
• Why is the advisory on Ashwagandha important? The advisory ensures consumer safety by regulating the parts of Ashwagandha used in nutraceuticals, preventing potential health risks associated with its leaves.
• What are the key features of the FSSAI advisory? The advisory restricts the use of Ashwagandha leaves due to safety concerns and mandates adherence to specified plant parts and limits in health supplements.