Forget figs, is even Kaju Katli non- veg?

Recently, social media has been abuzz with debates about the vegetarian status of certain foods. Following the uproar around figs (anjeer) being labelled "non-vegetarian" due to their natural pollination process involving wasps, another popular Indian sweet dish—Kaju Katli—has come under scrutiny. The controversy stems from the use of silver varq (silver leaf) traditionally used to decorate this beloved dessert.


The controversy over silver varq
Kaju Katli, a sweet made from cashew paste, sugar, and ghee, is a staple in Indian festivals and celebrations. Traditionally considered vegetarian, questions about its status have arisen due to the method of preparing silver varq. According to a viral video by Dr. Ravi K Gupta, a US-board-certified hematologist-oncologist, the process of making silver leaf often involves the use of animal-derived materials, particularly from cow or buffalo intestines, making it non-vegetarian.


In 2016, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a notification banning silver leaf manufactured using animal-derived materials, citing unhygienic conditions and risks of contamination. While the Delhi government implemented the directive, the Delhi High Court lifted the ban in 2018 after manufacturers petitioned that their methods were safe and hygienic.

ALSO READ: How to make Kaju Katli at home

Choose vegetarian-friendly varq
In response to the growing demand for ethical and vegetarian-friendly products, many manufacturers have shifted to using synthetic alternatives or machinery-based processes to produce silver varq without animal products. Reputable brands now offer vegetarian-certified silver leaf, ensuring peace of mind for those concerned about dietary ethics.


If you buy Kaju Katli, it is best to ask where they get the silver varq or look for brands that employ vegetarian-certified silver leaf. Or Kaju Katli without any silver varq is completely just as tasty and vegetarian for those who care about this issue.

Tips to identify vegetarian Kaju Katli

To make sure that the Kaju Katli one's eating is vegetarian-friendly as well, make sure to check the label as many manufacturers now mention if the silver varq is vegetarian-friendly. Also, make sure to ask the seller about the source of the silver varq when buying from a local store. Last, but not the least, some sweet shops offer Kaju Katli without any silver layer to ensure it is vegetarian-friendly. Thus, you can opt for Kaju Katli that is free from silver varq.




(Image courtesy: Canva)



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