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Court Halts FSSAI Ashwagandha Ban
14 May
Summary
- Karnataka High Court stayed FSSAI's advisory on Ashwagandha leaves.
- Two companies challenged the ban, citing existing regulations.
- The court's interim order is effective until the next hearing date.
The Karnataka High Court has issued an interim stay on an advisory from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) that prohibited the use of Ashwagandha leaves or extracts in supplements. This advisory was initially flagged for safety concerns by the Union Ministry of Ayush.
Justice S R Krishna Kumar granted the stay, specifically for petitioners Sami-Sabinsa Group Ltd and Kerry Inc, until the upcoming hearing. These companies had challenged the FSSAI's April 16, 2026 advisory, arguing it was issued improperly and without amending the relevant 2016 regulations.
Petitioners' counsel contended that their manufacturing methods, including the use of Ashwagandha leaves, have been established for over 30 years and adhere to the Food Safety and Standards (Health Supplements) Regulations, 2016. They highlighted that a ban via advisory, rather than regulatory amendment, is legally flawed.
The Union Government and FSSAI requested time to file objections. The court has scheduled the next hearing for June 8, 2026, to further consider the matter.
