The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple complex in Ayodhya has been granted the 'Eat Right Place of Worship' certification by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This formal recognition follows an extensive evaluation of food hygiene, preparation protocols, and handling practices maintained inside the temple premises. According to details shared by the regulatory body on social media platform X, the certificate remains valid for a two-year tenure, running from October 11, 2026 through October 10, 2028.
Upholding Hygiene Across Religious Offerings
This targeted initiative forms an integral part of the broader 'Eat Right India' movement spearheaded by the statutory food authority. The core mandate behind the 'Eat Right Places of Worship' program is to guarantee that prasad, community meals, and all consumable items prepared across pilgrimage hubs satisfy stringent health and sanitation benchmarks. Beyond simple compliance, the drive encourages administrative bodies to maintain uncompromised ingredient quality, eliminate procedural lapses, and systematically follow national food safety protocols. The regulator awarded the certification specifically on the merits of the temple's preparation standards and food safety environment.
Comprehensive Audits, Staff Training, and Regulatory Alignment
Under this structured framework, religious venues are oriented to build internal operational systems aligned with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, along with its associated rules and governing regulations. The process involves dispensing critical guidance, hands-on instructions, and specialized food safety training to temple handlers. Before granting approval, the regulatory authority executes an initial evaluation based on established criteria. Once preliminary assessments are completed, relevant workers undergo formal training modules, followed by a conclusive verification conducted by independent third-party audit agencies. Only locations that satisfy every parameter receive the official certificate. Notably, the consecration ceremony of the new idol of Ram Lalla took place at the newly built Ayodhya temple on January 22, 2024.
Promoting Safe Preparation and Storage in Sacred Spaces
The Eat Right Place of Worship certificate is open to an array of faith-based locations, including temples, gurdwaras, and mosques that serve prasad, community kitchens, or associated food items. Regulatory authorities inspect raw material storage, culinary hygiene, cooking practices, and distribution channels before issuing the badge. The overarching objective remains empowering religious trusts and administrators to source wholesome provisions, maintain impeccable storage conditions, and serve safely handled offerings to visitors.
