The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is taking steps to improve food safety and quality for pilgrims visiting Tirumala. The temple trust is taking the help of the Food Safety Department to train the Annaprasadam staff, hoteliers and vendors in Tirumala.
This was stated by TTD Executive Officer Syamala Rao on Friday at an information meeting in Tirumala, which was also attended by representatives of Janata Canteens etc. The EO stressed the organisation’s commitment to improving food safety standards. The pilgrims will be assured of hygienic, healthy and tasty food at reasonable prices, he said.
Director of Food Safety Purnachandra Rao explained the correct hygienic and sanitary practices that restaurants and eateries in Tirumala should follow. He pointed out the physical, chemical and biological hazards posed by food and stressed the need for proper handling and storage.
He also pointed out the penalties for violating the food safety laws and regulations. TTD EO Syamala Rao announced that all large and Janata canteen operators have been given until August 5 to bring their operations into line with food safety standards. They must display price lists for all menu items, failing which they will face hefty fines. He urged the AP Tourism Development Corporation to run more hotels and set an example to others in terms of hygiene, quality and quantity.
Meanwhile, the TTD is considering extending food safety training to smaller hotel operators and vendors in Tirumala. JEO Veerabrahmam, Deputy EO (Health) Asha Jyothi, Additional Health Officer Sunil Kumar, Deputy EO Vijayalakshmi and Special Officer (Hospitality) GLN Shastry were present.
The raid was to ascertain the facts and verify the authenticity of the complaints, he said, adding that any deviation in the quality of food served to pilgrims would not be tolerated. All hotels should strictly adhere to the prescribed standards and the health of pilgrims is the top priority.
Comments
0 comment