Dhaka: Speakers at a discussion have underscored the importance of a clear labeling system on product packaging, allowing consumers to easily identify levels of sugar, salt, trans fat, saturated fat, and other ingredients to determine potential health risks. They also emphasized the need for defining labeled substances, establishing the labeling process, and assigning an approving authority to oversee regular monitoring, coordination, and enforcement for effective implementation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the discussion titled “Ensuring Information on the Ingredients of Packaged Food for Health Protection and What to Do to Control Advertisements of Unhealthy Food” was jointly organized by Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) and the Center for Law and Policy Affairs (CLPA) at the Conference Hall of the BMU’s Super Specialized Hospital recently, as stated in a BMU press release.
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, BMU Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md Mujibur Rahman Hawlader stressed the importance of ensuring safe food for good health and highlighted the urgent need to control the rising number of diseases in the country. He stated, “We must consider whether we are unknowingly purchasing and consuming poison in the name of food.”
Dr. Shibbir Ahmed Osmani, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, announced that the government has decided to tag labeling of sugar, salt, and trans fat content in packaged foods. He noted that the Ministry of Health is collaborating with other ministries to implement this initiative effectively.
Dr. Khalequzzaman Rumel of Bangladesh Medical University presented research findings indicating that certain sugary beverages contain harmful ingredients contributing to tooth decay. Professor Dr. Mohammad Shoyeb, a member of Bangladesh Safe Food Authority, described the Safe Food Act as a robust legal framework but noted that research suggests many businesses are failing to comply with it. The Food Safety Authority, he mentioned, is actively working to enforce proper labeling on food packaging.
Ruhul Kuddus of the Global Health Advocacy Incubator emphasized the need for the Food Safety Authority to lead in ensuring food quality and proper packaging regulations. Barrister Nishat Mahmud highlighted that the constitution prioritizes public health, affirming that access to safe food is a fundamental right.
Public health expert, journalist, and researcher Sushant Sinha called for stricter monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective enforcement of the Food Safety Act. Professor Dr. Saidur Arefin stressed the importance of raising public awareness about safe food practices. Dr. AFM Sarwar recommended that health warnings on food packaging should be designed in a way that is clear and easily understandable for the citizens of Bangladesh.
The meeting was chaired by Dr. Atiqur Haque, Chairman of the Public Health Department at Bangladesh Medical University, with representatives from various organizations sharing their insights. The CLPA presented its study on the packaging and labeling of sugary drinks and chips, revealing the absence of health warnings and highlighting the widespread promotion of these products in stores. Additionally, it was found that 70 percent of shopkeepers receive commissions for extra sales, while 52 percent of stores have branded refrigerators, and 36 percent display branded signboards.