Tue Feb 24 03:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Tirupati Temple to Launch Advanced Food Testing Lab Amid Laddu Contamination Concerns

The Story:

Amidst growing controversy over alleged contamination of the laddu prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav announced that a new, state-of-the-art food testing laboratory in Tirumala will begin operations next month. The lab, a result of an agreement between the Andhra Pradesh government and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) signed in October 2024, has been allocated approximately Rs 25 crore and will feature advanced equipment, including an “electronic tongue” and “electronic nose” imported from France at a cost of Rs 3.5 crore. This initiative aims to ensure the highest quality of ingredients used in the preparation of the temple’s famous laddu and other offerings.

The new lab will test over 60 varieties of raw materials, including ghee, cashew, cardamom, sugar, and other ingredients. It will also be equipped to detect metal contamination and pesticide residues. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the temple, has provided 12,000 square feet of space for the lab, and a team of 40 staff members from both the TTD health department and the state health department will operate it. This follows the establishment of a Food Quality Testing Laboratory in July 2025 after allegations of adulterated ghee being used in the laddus.

Key Points:

  • A state-of-the-art food testing laboratory in Tirumala is set to begin operations next month.
  • The lab is a result of an agreement between the Andhra Pradesh government and the FSSAI signed in October 2024.
  • The project is funded with approximately Rs 25 crore, including Rs 3.5 crore for “electronic tongue” and “electronic nose” devices imported from France.
  • The lab will test over 60 varieties of raw materials used in preparing the laddus and other offerings.
  • The initiative follows allegations of laddu contamination, including the use of adulterated ghee.
  • In July 2025, TTD established a new Food Quality Testing Laboratory at Tirumala.

Critical Analysis:

The announcement of the advanced food testing lab highlights a proactive response to public concerns regarding the quality and purity of the laddu prasadam. The investment in sophisticated technology like “electronic tongue” and “electronic nose” demonstrates a commitment to rigorous quality control. The timing of the announcement, amid ongoing controversy, suggests a strategic effort to restore public trust and confidence in the temple’s offerings. The previous establishment of a Food Quality Testing Laboratory in July 2025 further underscores a pattern of addressing quality concerns, albeit reactively.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sri Venkateswara Temple is prioritizing food safety and quality control measures for its laddu prasadam.
  • Advanced technology is being implemented to ensure the purity and quality of ingredients.
  • Public pressure and concerns over contamination have likely accelerated the development and implementation of these measures.
  • The collaboration between the Andhra Pradesh government and FSSAI is crucial for ensuring food safety standards.
  • The investment in food testing infrastructure reflects the economic and cultural significance of the laddu prasadam.

Impact Analysis:

The establishment of the advanced food testing lab is likely to have a significant long-term impact. The enhanced testing capabilities will not only help to ensure the quality of the laddu prasadam but also potentially improve the overall food safety standards at the temple. This could set a precedent for other religious institutions and food manufacturers in India to adopt similar advanced testing measures. Furthermore

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