TTD Sets Up Ultra-Modern Lab to Guarantee Tirumala Laddu Quality

In a historic move to protect the sanctity of Tirumala’s iconic laddu prasadam, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is setting up an ultra-modern food testing laboratory . The initiative aims to restore devotees’ confidence after past controversies over ghee quality, ensuring that every ingredient used in prasadam is meticulously tested.

The new facility, under construction atop Tirumala hill, is nearing completion , with nearly 90% of the work done. Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav said it will be operational next month . The lab occupies around 12,000 sq. ft. at the site of the old flour mill and features a fully modernized two-story building equipped with state-of-the-art testing facilities.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) contributed ₹23 crore for the project, with an additional ₹3.5 crore approved for advanced equipment after concerns about ghee adulteration.

Among the high-tech instruments are the “electronic tongue” and “electronic nose” , capable of scientifically analyzing taste and aroma profiles to detect even the slightest adulteration in ghee. These devices, imported from France , will be fully operational by May.

The lab will test nearly 60 raw ingredients used in laddu preparation, including ghee, dry fruits, rice, and lentils. Around 50 high-tech machines will check for pesticides, microorganisms, and other contaminants. In addition, the lab will monitor water and other food items in Tirumala. A team of 40 experts from TTD and the Health Department has been appointed for these tasks.

Importantly, the lab does not test each laddu individually . Instead, it ensures that all ingredients meet the highest quality standards before prasadam preparation. By rigorously testing raw materials and batches, TTD guarantees that every laddu made is pure, safe, and sacred .

Officials emphasized that this is the first time in the country that such an advanced facility is being set up at a spiritual site. The project’s main goal is to provide devotees with pure prasadam while safeguarding the prestige of the Tirumala temple . Once operational, the government assures that devotees will have complete confidence in the quality and purity of Srivari prasadam .