Ayodhya Ram Temple Awarded FSSAI’s Eat Right Place of Worship Certification

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra in Ayodhya has been officially recognized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for upholding high standards of food safety and hygiene. This prestigious recognition, known as the 'Eat Right Place of Worship' certification, was awarded to the temple for the period from October 11, 2026, to October 10, 2028.

The FSSAI, India's national food regulator, announced this achievement via a social media update on Sunday. The certificate was formally presented during a ceremony held in Ayodhya on Saturday by FSSAI Chief Executive Officer Rajit Punhani. This event highlighted the temple's commitment to maintaining strict food safety protocols in alignment with FSSAI guidelines.

The 'Eat Right Places of Worship' initiative is part of FSSAI's broader campaign to promote safe and hygienic food practices in religious establishments across the country. The program encourages temples, mosques, gurudwaras, churches, and other places of worship to implement measures that ensure food served to devotees meets safety standards. Additionally, this initiative aims to spread awareness about food safety among visitors, fostering responsible behavior and enhancing public health.

Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra is a significant pilgrimage destination, attracting millions of devotees annually. Managing food safety in such a high-traffic location is critical, as it involves preparing and distributing prasad and meals to large numbers of people. Receiving the FSSAI certification reflects the temple administration’s efforts to maintain cleanliness, proper food handling, and hygiene in kitchens and serving areas.

Food safety has become a growing priority in India, given the country's vast and diverse culinary landscape. The government, through FSSAI, has been actively working to standardize food quality and hygiene practices, especially in places where food is served to large groups. This certification program for places of worship is a strategic move to leverage the influence of religious centers to promote safe food consumption habits.

Rajit Punhani, CEO of FSSAI, emphasized that food safety and hygiene at places of worship not only protect the health of devotees but also set an example for other institutions. He noted that the initiative helps in creating awareness among millions who visit these sites, encouraging them to adopt safe food habits in their daily lives.

By becoming an 'Eat Right Place of Worship', the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra joins a growing list of religious institutions that have committed to this cause. This certification requires adherence to strict guidelines, including the use of clean water, proper storage of food items, maintaining kitchen hygiene, and training staff in food safety protocols.

The recognition also serves as a benchmark for other temples and religious sites across India, encouraging them to prioritize food safety and hygiene. As places of worship often provide free meals or prasad, ensuring these are safe for consumption is vital to prevent foodborne illnesses and promote public health.

In addition to its religious significance, the Ram Janmbhoomi site has been a focal point of cultural and historical interest. Its recent certification by FSSAI adds a public health dimension to its importance, showing how religious institutions can align with modern standards for community well-being.

Overall, the certification highlights the growing recognition of food safety as a shared responsibility. The initiative by FSSAI reflects an understanding that safe food handling practices in places of worship can have a positive ripple effect in society, encouraging millions to be mindful of hygiene and health in their food choices.