Tirupati, June 15, 2026: In a major step towards ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality, TTD has entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR–Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI), Mysuru.
The agreement aims to integrate scientific expertise and advanced food technologies into the preparation, storage, testing and distribution of Srivari Prasadams and Annaprasadams while preserving their traditional sanctity and authenticity.
First Such Initiative in the Temple Sector
The MoU was signed during the two-day RISE Conclave 2026 (Research, Innovation, Start-ups and Entrepreneurship) held in Bengaluru.
The agreement was finalized in the presence of Pralhad Joshi, who emphasized the importance of innovation, indigenous technologies, research and entrepreneurship in strengthening India's food systems.
TTD officials described the collaboration as the first initiative of its kind in the temple sector across the country.
Strengthening Food Safety and Quality Standards
One of the primary objectives of the partnership is to establish comprehensive food quality control systems.
Under the agreement:
✅ Scientific quality-control protocols will be developed
✅ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will be strengthened
✅ Procurement, preparation and distribution processes will be monitored systematically
✅ Food safety compliance mechanisms will be enhanced
The initiative is expected to further improve the quality of food served to lakhs of devotees every day.
Modernization of Food Systems
CSIR-CFTRI will provide technical guidance for:
🔬 Scientific testing procedures
🏢 Storage infrastructure improvements
📦 Procurement system modernization
⚙️ Adoption of scientifically validated technologies
📋 Best-practice operational workflows
These measures are intended to reduce contamination risks and improve consistency in food preparation.
Scientific Preservation of Srivari Prasadams
A significant component of the collaboration focuses on preserving the quality and authenticity of sacred Prasadams.
Researchers will work on:
📦 Advanced packaging methods
⏳ Shelf-life enhancement techniques
🍮 Preservation of traditional taste and texture
🛕 Protection of cultural and religious significance
The objective is to ensure that devotees receive prasadams of the highest quality without altering traditional preparation methods.
Training for TTD Food Personnel
The agreement also includes extensive capacity-building initiatives.
CSIR-CFTRI experts will train TTD personnel in:
🔬 Advanced food analysis
🧪 Sampling procedures
⚠️ Contaminant detection
🧈 Ghee purity assessment
🌺 Aroma profiling techniques
These programmes will help strengthen in-house expertise within TTD's food departments.
Regular Scientific Monitoring
Senior scientists from CSIR-CFTRI will periodically visit TTD facilities to:
📊 Conduct validation studies
🏭 Review food preparation systems
📦 Improve storage practices
🚚 Strengthen procurement planning
📈 Recommend continuous improvements
New Era for Srivari Food Services
The collaboration marks a significant milestone in TTD's efforts to combine tradition with science.
By integrating advanced food technology with centuries-old temple practices, TTD aims to provide safer, healthier and higher-quality food and prasadams to millions of devotees visiting Tirumala every year.
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