France-made e-tongue, e-nose machines to check Tirumala Prasadam quality in Rs 25-crore lab

VIJAYAWADA: The state govt will install advanced e-tongue and e-nose machines worth Rs 3.5 crore at the upcoming state-of-the-art food testing laboratory in Tirumala, being set up at a cost of Rs 25 crore.

These high-precision instruments, manufactured in France, replicate the sensory functions of the human tongue and nose to scientifically analyse taste and aroma profiles. They can detect microscopic levels of deterioration or adulteration in ghee and other food items.



Health minister Satya Kumar Yadav announced that the new laboratory will become operational next month, with nearly 90% of construction and installation works completed.

The facility will test around 60 varieties of raw materials used in preparing Srivari prasadam, including ghee, cashew nuts, raisins, almonds, Bengal gram, sugar, cardamom, turmeric, and chilli powder. The initiative aims to ensure devotees are served safe, hygienic, and high-quality food in the temple town.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sanctioned Rs 23 crore for the establishment of the laboratory, which will span 12,000 sq ft. An old two-storey building at the flour mill premises in Tirumala was allocated for the lab, with renovation works beginning in July last year.

The laboratory will operate through microbiology, chemistry, and sensory analysis divisions, testing prasadam, food items, drinking water, and raw materials for pesticide residues (up to 200 types), heavy metals, microbial contamination, antibiotics, and other harmful substances. A total of 50 advanced instruments will be installed, and samples of TTD drinking water will also be tested regularly.

For smooth functioning, about 40 personnel will be jointly deployed by the health department and Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). On the occasion, Satya Kumar Yadav said the facility would significantly strengthen food safety mechanisms in Tirumala and reinforce devotees' confidence in the purity of Srivari prasadam.