Within the broad landscape of Śaiva traditions, there is no single, universally binding dietary code; rather, there are shared tendencies shaped by scripture, custom, and the principle of ahiṃsā, non‑violence. Many Śaivas, especially in more orthodox or ascetic lineages, lean strongly toward vegetarianism, avoiding meat, fish, and often eggs, and favoring a sāttvic style of eating that emphasizes purity and simplicity. This preference is closely tied to the conviction that food should support clarity of mind, compassion, and spiritual discipline, and that offerings to Śiva are most fitting when they are pure, plant‑based, and free from harm to living beings. In this sense, diet becomes part of an ethical and contemplative discipline rather than a merely external rule.

Alongside this general preference, certain additional restrictions are commonly observed, though not everywhere in the same way. Many practitioners avoid alcohol and other intoxicants, especially those engaged in serious spiritual practice, seeing such substances as obstacles to self‑control and meditative awareness. Some communities also limit or avoid pungent foods such as onions and garlic, regarding them as overly stimulating and not conducive to inner stillness. In temple worship and household ritual alike, food offered as naivedya and received as prasāda is typically vegetarian, prepared with care and reverence, and treated as sacred.

At the same time, Śaivism encompasses a wide range of sects and regional expressions, and this diversity is reflected in dietary practice. Certain tantric or more liberal currents allow, in restricted ritual contexts, the use of substances such as meat or alcohol, while still maintaining a different standard for everyday conduct and temple worship. Extreme ascetic groups may even set aside conventional food rules altogether as part of a radical spiritual discipline, though such paths are exceptional and not representative of the mainstream. Other communities, including some in particular regions, may consume non‑vegetarian food socially while still maintaining vegetarian norms in ritual life. Thus, while a non‑intoxicating, largely vegetarian diet is widely esteemed as an ideal, the living reality of Śaiva practice allows for considerable variation shaped by lineage, region, and personal vow.