Food fraud

During the holy month of Ramadan, several food items failed to meet the standards set by Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). In fact, adulteration of food items has reached shocking proportions. People buy ready-made food items prior to Iftar and some unscrupulous businessmen use toxic chemicals to gain higher profit. A study on food security says that more than 40 per cent food items available in the market is contaminated with harmful chemicals and as a result a large number of consumers are falling sick regularly. Ensuring hygienic food for each citizen is the responsibility of the state. Everyone should be aware of it and work accordingly from their respective positions to fight adulteration of food. The authorities should maintain zero tolerance and impose exemplary punishment for the offenders.

Faria Hoque

East West University

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