FSSAI Issues Notice to AR Dairy Over Tirupati Prasadam Ghee Quality

FSSAI has issued a show cause notice to AR Dairy Food Pvt. Ltd. for supplying substandard ghee used in Tirupati Prasadam. AR Dairy failed ghee quality tests, leading to blacklisting and potential suspension of their central license. Andhra Pradesh CM initiated an investigation into the matter.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a show cause notice to AR Dairy Food Private Ltd, a supplier of ghee for Tirupati Prasadam. According to the notice, AR Dairy's ghee sample has failed to meet required quality parameters.

Information from The Director Institute of Preventive Medicine, Mangalagin, reveals that AR Dairy has been supplying ghee to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) for the past four years. Samples sent to the NDDB CALF Lab in Anand, Gujarat, confirmed the product's non-compliance. Consequently, TTD's Executive Officer has blacklisted AR Dairy.

The show cause notice indicates that AR Dairy's non-compliant ghee violates the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 and pertinent regulations. Authorities have demanded an explanation by September 23, failing which the company's central license may face suspension. Union Health Minister JP Nadda announced an investigation and promised suitable action following a comprehensive report. Additionally, Former TTD Chairman YV Subba Reddy called for an independent probe into alleged substandard ingredients and animal fat in the ghee.

In a related move, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the claims of adulterated ghee in the sacred Tirupati Prasadam. The Temple Authority has also established a sensory panel to evaluate the food's aroma, taste, and texture.

Naidu sparked political controversy by alleging that the ghee contained animal fat during the previous YSRCP government. Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, situated in Tirumala hills, remains at the center of this burgeoning issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)