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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken strict action against a ghee supplier to the renowned Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. A R Dairy, a Tamil Nadu-based company, has been issued a show cause notice by the FSSAI, demanding an explanation as to why its license should not be suspended. This drastic measure comes after allegations surfaced that the ghee supplied by A R Dairy, which was used in the preparation of the famous laddoo offerings at the temple, was adulterated with animal fat.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the governing body of the Tirupati temple, had sent samples of the ghee to the Centre for Analysis and Learning in Livestock and Food in Gujarat for testing. The results revealed that the sample from A R Dairy failed to meet the established standards for ghee. This led to the FSSAI issuing the show cause notice, stating that the company's central license is at risk of being suspended due to the violation of food safety regulations.
A R Dairy has vehemently denied the allegations of adulteration. However, the FSSAI notice clearly states that the company has been blacklisted and must provide a satisfactory response by Monday. Failure to do so will result in further action, including the possible suspension of its license, as per the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 and related regulations. This incident highlights the importance of stringent food safety measures, especially in religious institutions where offerings are considered sacred.
The TTD has conducted rituals at the tanks used to store ghee, the storage area for other ingredients, the kitchen, and the trays used to carry offerings in the temple. These measures aim to ensure the purity and sanctity of the offerings. The incident has caused concern among devotees and has raised questions about the quality control measures in place for suppliers to religious institutions.
Source: FSSAI sends show cause notice to company supplying ghee to Tirupati temple