According to reports, beef tallow has been traditionally used during cooking, candle-making and even as a lubricant

Tirupati laddu controversy LIVE: Amidst the raging controversy over allegations of the presence of “animal fat” in the laddoos served as 'prasadam' at Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh, the Centre has sought a report from the Andhra Pradesh government.

A political storm erupts in Andhra Pradesh as TDP alleges the presence of 'beef tallow' and 'lard' in Tirupati laddus, based on a controversial lab report. The claims, made by N. Chandrababu Naidu, raise serious questions about ingredient quality and have prompted calls for an investigation.

In a press conference on Thursday, TDP spokesperson Anam Venkata Ramana Reddy displayed the purported lab report which apparently confirmed the presence of “beef tallow”, "lard" (relating to pig fat) and fish oil in the given ghee sample.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, which manages the temple, asserted there was presence of 'Lard' (pig fat) and other impurities in the ghee, citing a lab report.

The famous Srivari laddu from the Tirupati temple, Srivari laddu, has recently gained attention amid controversy surrounding its ingredients. The Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanams (TTD) has a geographical indication tag for its famous laddu,