Speakers at a discussion have underscored the importance of a transparent labeling system on product packaging. This system allows consumers to easily identify the levels of sugar, salt, trans fat, saturated fat, and other ingredients to determine potential health risks.
They also stressed the importance of defining labeled substances, establishing the labeling process, and assigning an approving authority to oversee regular monitoring, coordination, and enforcement for effective implementation.
Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) and the Center for Law and Policy Affairs (CLPA) jointly organized a discussion titled “Ensuring information on the ingredients of packaged food for health protection and what to do to control advertisements of unhealthy food” at the Conference Hall of BMU’s Super Specialized Hospital recently, according to a BMU press release today.
As chief guest, BMU Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Md Mujibur Rahman Hawlader said, “We must consider whether we are unknowingly purchasing and consuming poison in the name of food.”
He said ensuring safe food is essential for good health and emphasized the urgent need to control the rising number of diseases in the country.
The BMU Pro-VC stressed that, alongside public awareness, legal measures must be enforced to guarantee food safety.
Dr. Shibbir Ahmed Osmani, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, said that the government has decided to tag labeling of sugar, salt, and trans fat content in packaged foods.
He said 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 Bangladesh Safe Food Authority member, described the Safe Food Act as a robust legal framework. Although packaging regulations have been introduced under this law, research suggests many businesses fail to comply with them.
Cox’s Bazar Life Desk/BSS
