Pākaśāstra refers to the “science and art of cooking”, as explained in the 17th century Bhojanakutūhala, a work dealing with the ancient Indian principles of dietetics and culinary art.—Food assumes utmost importance among the three basic needs of human life, the other two being clothing and shelter. The role of food is evident in constituting growth and development of all living beings. The science upon the food substances is also equally important.