Dhaka: Food and Land Adviser Ali Imam Majumder emphasized the increasing risk of diseases accompanying the rising demand for food, highlighting the necessity for Bangladesh to ensure safe food to sustain its development trajectory. He made these remarks while addressing a discussion meeting held in observance of National Safe Food Day 2026 at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council auditorium.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Ali Imam Majumder, speaking as the chief guest, stressed the importance of food safety alongside enhancing food production. He noted that while technology and imports are boosting production, imported food can sometimes pose safety risks that need to be addressed through coordinated efforts. He also raised concerns over public health, citing the risk of Nipah virus infection from consuming raw date palm sap and questioning why such diseases have become significant risks now.
The adviser further pointed out the need for investigations into the use of hormones and unsafe methods in producing certain fish species, such as pangas, emphasizing that increased food production should not compromise human health. During the first session of the discussion, Food Secretary Md Firoz Sarker presided over the programme, with Agriculture Secretary Dr Md Emdad Ullah Mian attending as a special guest. The welcome address was delivered by BFSA Chairman Zakaria.
BFSA member Dr Mohammad Mostafa shared the results of food sample testing, and Professor Dr Md Mahmudul Hasan Sikder of Bangladesh Agricultural University presented the keynote paper. The second session included an open discussion moderated by the BFSA chairman, featuring panel discussants such as Professor Dr Sangeeta Ahmed from Dhaka University and Professor Dr Mohammad Ariful Islam from Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University.
Agriculture Secretary Dr Emdad Ullah Mian stated that the ministries of agriculture, food, and land, along with other relevant ministries, are working in a coordinated effort to ensure food security. He announced that a 25-year agricultural development plan would soon be finalized. Sharing his field experiences, he highlighted the misuse of pesticides, noting that farmers often apply them to vegetables with the mindset that they won't consume them themselves, a mindset he stressed must change.