CM to Open ₹25 Crore High-Tech Lab to Monitor Tirupati Prasadam Today

In a major step to boost devotees’ confidence in the purity of Tirumala temple offerings, the state-of-the-art State Food Laboratory is set to be inaugurated today. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu , visiting for a two-day tour, will formally open the facility today.

Built over 12,000 square feet at a cost of ₹25 crore, the lab was commissioned by TTD with infrastructure support from the central government. The project, launched in June 2025, was completed swiftly following a historic agreement between the Andhra Pradesh government and FSSAI in August 2024.

Advanced Technology for Precise Testing

The laboratory employs cutting-edge tools, including AI-powered E-Tongue and E-Nose systems imported from France, to detect subtle variations in the taste and aroma of prasadam such as laddu and rice offerings. These systems ensure that each batch meets strict quality standards .

Rigorous Quality Checks

Equipped with over 50 modern instruments, the lab examines ingredients like ghee, oils, milk, cashews, raisins, almonds, cardamom, chickpeas, sugar, turmeric, and chili powder across 50 parameters. Tests detect adulteration, confirm the presence of animal or plant-based oils, and identify residues of pesticides, preservatives, or microbes through chemical and microbiological analysis.

Safeguarding Devotee Trust

State Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav highlighted that the laboratory will help maintain Tirumala temple’s global reputation while ensuring the sanctity and safety of prasadam. Unlike the previous facility, which offered only basic testing, the new lab allows the government to guarantee that offerings meet the highest standards, strengthening the trust of millions of devotees.