Andhra Pradesh government is set to introduce advanced technology to ensure the purity and quality of ghee and other ingredients used in Tirumala temple offerings, with Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav announcing the import of specialised “e-tongue” and “e-nose” machines from France.
The sophisticated equipment, costing approximately Rs 3.5 crore, will be installed at a state-of-the-art food testing laboratory currently being established in Tirumala Tirupati Devastanams premises in Tirumala. The laboratory, being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 25 crore, is nearly 90 per cent complete and is expected to become operational next month. The e-tongue and e-nose machines are likely to arrive by May, officials said.
Addressing concerns over allegations of adulterated ghee supplied during the previous YSRCP regime, the Minister said the government is adopting modern technology to prevent any recurrence. The advanced machines are designed to detect even the slightest deterioration in the quality, smell, and composition of ghee, ensuring strict quality control for temple offerings.
The upcoming laboratory will test around 60 types of raw materials and ingredients used in preparing Srivari prasadam, including ghee, cashew nuts, raisins, almonds, peanuts, sugar, cardamom, turmeric, and chilli. A comprehensive analysis will be carried out by the microbiology and chemistry departments to detect pesticide residues, heavy metals, microbial contamination, insects, and traces of antibiotics.
“The laboratory will be equipped to identify up to 200 types of residues,” the Minister said, adding that the facility will significantly enhance food safety and quality assurance standards.
In addition to food ingredients, samples of TTD Jala Prasadam (water) will also undergo testing. The laboratory will be equipped with around 50 types of advanced instruments, and approximately 40 trained personnel from the Medical and Health Department and the temple administration will be deployed to operate the facility.
A two-storey building covering 12,000 square feet within the flour mill premises in Tirumala has been allocated for the laboratory. Construction began in July last year, and authorities expect the facility to play a crucial role in maintaining the purity, safety, and sanctity of temple offerings for millions of devotees.
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