Satyanarayan Mohapatra
Prasad under scrutiny: the gap in food safety
The recent controversy surrounding adulterated ghee in Tirupati's laddus has shone a spotlight on a broader issue: the oversight of temple prasad in India, particularly in Odisha, where prasad holds immense cultural and religious significance. As a certified food auditor, I've observed lapses in food safety practices at temples, including those serving and selling prasad commercially, such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, and Ananta Basudev Temple.
Despite the clear mandate of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which covers all food businesses, including temples, there seems to be a disconnect between the regulatory bodies and the ground reality. Temple authorities are required to be licensed with the FSSAI and submit regular reports on food production and sales. They must also source ingredients from licensed suppliers. However, enforcement and monitoring appear to be lacking.
Neither the state-level Food Commissioner nor the FSSAI has issued a statement assuring the public about the safety of temple prasad, particularly concerning the use of clarified butter (ghee), a common ingredient in many preparations. This silence, in the wake of the Tirupati controversy, is unsettling for many devotees who consider prasad not just food but a sacred offering.
The public, now more aware of potential food safety issues, is demanding transparency and accountability. The question remains: how can regulatory authorities ensure the safety and quality of temple prasad?
One approach could involve reviewing the records of temples and their suppliers, tracing the origin of ingredients to identify any potential adulteration. Additionally, increased awareness campaigns and training programs for temple staff on food safety practices could help mitigate risks.
It's time for the FSSAI and the state Food Commissioner to step up and address these concerns. The sanctity and safety of temple prasad are paramount, and the public deserves reassurance.
#PrasadSafety #FoodSafety #FSSAI #OdishaTemples
Disclaimer: views opined are that of author's
