Tirumala, June 2, 2026: In a significant initiative aimed at ensuring safe and hygienic food for millions of pilgrims visiting Tirumala every year, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), in collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and Nestle India, launched a three-day Food Safety Training Programme on Tuesday.
The programme commenced at the SV Museum Auditorium in Tirumala and covers 325 food establishments employing nearly 1,300 workers across the hill town.
Pilgrim Health is Top Priority: Additional EO
Addressing the gathering, TTD Additional Executive Officer Sri C. Venkaiah Chowdary emphasized that ensuring food safety and public health remains one of TTD’s highest priorities.
He stated that all hotels, restaurants and street food vendors operating in Tirumala should strictly follow hygienic food preparation methods and undertake regular food safety audits as prescribed under food safety regulations.
According to him, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food handling will significantly enhance the pilgrim experience and strengthen Tirumala’s reputation as a world-renowned spiritual destination.
Appreciation for Nestle India's CSR Initiative
The Additional EO appreciated Nestle India for conducting the training programme as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
He noted that Tirumala was chosen as the starting point for Nestle India's food safety awareness programme in Andhra Pradesh, calling it a commendable decision considering the large number of devotees visiting the hill shrine every day.
Regular Training Recommended
Sri Venkaiah Chowdary suggested that food safety awareness programmes should be conducted every six months for hotel operators and street food vendors.
He stressed that training should focus on:
- Hygienic food preparation
- Safe food storage
- Personal hygiene practices
- Food safety regulations
- Statutory compliance procedures
- Practical demonstrations and exercises
- Safe food-handling techniques
He also pointed out that TTD is already implementing strict hygiene standards in Annaprasadam preparation and urged private eateries to follow similar practices.
Safety Kits Distributed
At the conclusion of the session, the Additional EO distributed food safety kits to participants.
The kits included:
- Caps
- Gloves
- Aprons
- Soaps
- Other hygiene-related materials
Officials Present
The programme was attended by:
- Deputy EO (Health) Sri Soman Narayana
- Health Officer Dr. Sudha Rani
- Quality Manager Sri Lakshmi Narayana Reddy
- Nestle India Corporate Affairs Manager Sri Waseem Ahmed
- Health Department Officials
- Hotel Owners
- Street Food Vendors
- Other Participants
The initiative is expected to significantly improve food hygiene standards in Tirumala and contribute to the well-being of visiting pilgrims.
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