The VJML (Jain Vegetarian Meal) adheres to some of the strictest dietary requirements in airline catering, eliminating not only all animal products but also root vegetables and any ingredients that might harm multiple living beings.
These meals avoid onions, garlic, potatoes, and other root vegetables while focusing on above-ground plants.
The VJML is designed for passengers following Jain religious dietary laws.
These meals adhere to principles that extend far beyond standard vegetarian requirements, eliminating not only animal products but also foods that involve harming plants with multiple lives or complex root systems.
Most airlines provide Indian-style preparations featuring vegetables that grow above ground, prepared with traditional spices and seasonings.
You’ll typically receive dishes such as spiced lentils (dal), rice preparations, and above-ground vegetables cooked with cumin, turmeric, and other approved spices, as well as fresh fruits.
Importantly, VJML is completely vegan (no dairy, eggs, or animal products), in addition to these restrictions, making it an excellent alternative for vegans when standard vegan meals aren’t available on their airline.
What’s included
- Above-ground vegetables (beans, peas, leafy greens, tomatoes)
- Lentils and pulses (dal preparations)
- Rice and approved grains
- Fresh fruits
- Tofu and plant-based proteins
- Indian spices and seasonings (excluding garlic-based)
- Vegetables that grow above ground only
What’s never included: Any animal products (meat, dairy, eggs), root vegetables (onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots, ginger, radishes), honey, or any foods that conflict with Jain principles of minimising harm to living beings.
Dietary notes: Completely vegan plus additional Jain restrictions. It is prepared according to Jain religious principles but may still contain allergens such as nuts or gluten. It is more restrictive than standard vegan meals but often well-spiced and flavourful.
How to Order
Limited availability – specialised meals not offered by all airlines.
Must be pre-ordered at least 24-48 hours before departure.
During booking, select the special meal option if VJML is available.
After booking, please call the airline directly, as availability may vary.
Travel agent bookings – Contact your agent but verify with the airline
Important: Not all airlines are familiar with Jain dietary requirements. Verify that the airline properly avoids root vegetables, not just animal products.
Alternatives
VGML (Vegan) – Plant-based but includes root vegetables that Jains avoid
AVML (Asian Vegetarian) – Indian-style but contains dairy and often garlic/onions
FPML (Fruit Platter) – Naturally follows Jain principles but minimal nutrition
RVML (Raw Vegetarian) – Raw foods only, naturally avoids problematic ingredients
Discover Airline Options
Find specific meal information for your airline.
FAQs
Why do Jain meals exclude root vegetables?
Jain dietary laws are based on ahimsa (non-violence). Root vegetables are believed to contain many microorganisms, and harvesting them is considered to cause more harm to living beings than above-ground plants.
Can vegans order VJML if VGML isn’t available?
Yes, VJML is entirely vegan, plus additional restrictions. It’s a good alternative for vegans, though you’ll miss foods like onions and garlic that vegans usually eat.
Do airlines understand Jain dietary requirements?
Understanding varies significantly. Some airlines work closely with Jain communities and understand the dietary restrictions, while others may not fully grasp the limitations.
Are Jain meals spicy despite avoiding garlic and onions?
Yes, Jain cuisine utilises a variety of other spices and seasonings. Airlines typically prepare VJML with traditional Indian spices that create flavourful dishes without prohibited ingredients.
What’s the difference between Jain and Hindu vegetarian meals?
HNML (Hindu Non-Vegetarian) contains meat, while Hindu vegetarian meals often include dairy, onions, and garlic. VJML is more restrictive, avoiding all animal products plus root vegetables.
Is VJML available on all international flights?
No, this is a specialised meal with limited availability. Airlines serving routes to and from India are more likely to offer VJML, but it’s not universally available.
