Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh: Known for embracing digital governance and technology-driven public services, Andhra Pradesh has now turned to cutting-edge food testing technology to ensure the purity of Tirumala temple prasadam.
Amid recent controversies over the quality of ghee supplied to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the state government is setting up an ultra-modern food testing laboratory equipped with advanced electronic systems such as an “E-Tongue” and “E-Nose” to ensure strict quality control and transparency.
₹25 Crore High-Tech Food Lab Nears Completion
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav said the state is establishing the modern laboratory at a cost of ₹25 crore, with most of the work already completed.
“E-Tongue and E-Nose ultra-modern food laboratory services can detect even micro-level quality deterioration in ghee. These labs will soon be made available in Tirumala,” Yadav said in an official press release.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sanctioned ₹23 crore for the project, with an agreement signed in New Delhi on October 8, 2024.
How E-Tongue and E-Nose Technology Works
Just like humans use the tongue and nose to detect taste and smell, electronic tongue (E-Tongue) and electronic nose (E-Nose) systems analyse flavour and aroma profiles using sensors and algorithms.
- E-Tongue: Detects taste patterns and microscopic deterioration in ghee and raw materials
- E-Nose: Analyses aroma profiles to identify adulteration and quality defects
These technologies are widely used in advanced food industries but are rare in religious institutions, making Tirumala one of the first pilgrimage centres in India to adopt such systems.
Comprehensive Testing for Prasadam and Raw Materials
The laboratory will test:
- Laddu prasadam and other temple food items
- Ghee and dry fruits
- Water and raw materials
Samples will be screened for:
- Pesticide residues
- Heavy metals
- Microbial contamination
- Antibiotics
The facility will house around 50 advanced instruments capable of detecting nearly 200 pesticide residues, ensuring global-level food safety standards.