In a significant move aimed at enhancing the safety, nutritional value and quality of the sacred offerings distributed to millions of devotees, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysuru.

The collaboration seeks to bring scientific expertise into the TTD’s extensive food and prasadam management systems while preserving the traditional character and sanctity of the offerings. The partnership will focus on strengthening quality-control measures across procurement, preparation, storage and distribution.

Under the agreement, CSIR-CFTRI will assist the TTD in upgrading food-handling systems through scientifically validated technologies, advanced testing methods and standardised workflows aimed at ensuring consistency and reducing contamination risks. Particular emphasis will be placed on improving procurement and storage practices through evidence-based interventions.

The institute will also explore ways to improve prasadam packaging and shelf life without affecting its taste, texture or cultural significance. In addition, it will conduct specialised training programmes for TTD personnel in food analysis, sampling techniques, contaminant detection, ghee quality assessment and aroma profiling.

Senior CFTRI scientists will make periodic visits to TTD facilities to provide technical guidance, validate processes and recommend measures for continuous improvement.