Dhaka:The Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA) imposed fines totaling Taka 35 lakh through 34 operations conducted nationwide in October, in accordance with the Food Safety Act. These operations aimed to address violations and enhance food safety standards across the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during the month-long initiative, the BFSA filed 28 cases and monitored 1,127 food establishments. The inspections revealed multiple irregularities, such as food handlers lacking health certificates, unregistered operating establishments, food preparation in unhygienic conditions, improper storage of food items, the use of burnt oil and unauthorized chemical colors, and the sale of unlabeled food products.
Specifically, 17 operations took place in Dhaka city, resulting in fines of Taka 13 lakh and the filing of 11 cases. Another 17 operations were executed in various districts outside Dhaka, where establishments faced fines totaling Taka 22.50 lakh, along with 17 cases being filed.
Throughout October, the BFSA monitored a range of food-related businesses, including markets, hotels, restaurants, bakeries, sweetmeat shops, as well as food production and processing units. Establishments found with irregularities received necessary instructions and faced legal actions.
BFSA Chairman Md Safiqul Islam emphasized that regular inspections, mobile court operations, food sample testing, research, and public awareness campaigns are being prioritized to ensure the provision of safe and quality food.