Examining roadside Iftar items

During the fasting month of Ramadan, roadside shops sell different types of Iftar items. They may look very tempting and colourful but they are often prepared and kept in unhygienic conditions. Many of the sellers also use harmful chemicals in these items. To make the food crispy, it is alleged that engine oil is used for frying foods at most of these stalls. The use of toxic chemical dye as colouring agent in the food is also rampant. Same cooking oil is recycled over and over again until it turns dark. These kinds of Iftar items surely do more harm than good and pose serious health hazards to fasting devotees.
The authorities concerned should remain vigilant to ensure vendors are not selling adulterated food to customers. Carrying out proper testing is a must. Mobile courts should carry out regular operations to ensure adulterated foods are kept off the streets during this month.

Fariha Tabassum Piya,
Student of Department of Management,
University of Dhaka, Dhaka,
f.tabassum36@gmail.com