Report

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) informed the Kerala High Court that the Sabarimala Sannidhanam, as a food business operator (FBO), must follow the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act in the preparation of ‘prasadam’ – ‘appam’ and ‘aravana’. FSSAI warned that it will take legal action if the temple fails to comply. It also classified appam as a “prepared food” under the Act.

Court Finds ‘Prasadam’ Moisture Levels Too High

The court was responding to petitions filed by Dr. Mahendra Kumar P S and others, who raised concerns about Sabarimala ‘prasadam’ safety. Acting on those concerns, the court had earlier ordered the food safety department to ensure that the moisture content in appam and aravana remains below 10%. However, tests on samples collected on November 14, 15, and 19, 2023, showed moisture levels above the limit, prompting calls for immediate corrective measures to prevent health risks.

Inspection Uncovers Hygiene Lapses at Pamba Facility

FSSAI also highlighted the findings of an inspection conducted six months ago at the Pamba production site. Inspectors found dust, cobwebs, food particles, and other contaminants in production and storage areas. They also noted a lack of handwashing stations, chipped floor tiles, flaking paint, and unsealed windows—all of which pose serious food safety risks.

Temples Fall Under FBO Rules

FSSAI emphasised that religious institutions offering food or ‘prasadam’ qualify as food business operators under the law. As such, they must ensure full compliance with hygiene and safety standards outlined in the FSS Act.

Source: The New Indian Express