Food Adulteration
Public health is currently facing a serious threat due to the widespread practice of food adulteration. A section of dishonest businessmen is involved in this illegal act solely to make windfall profits. They adulterate food by mixing harmful chemicals and substances to make it appear fresh and attractive, drawing unsuspecting consumers in large numbers.
Unfortunately, many consumers, out of ignorance or lack of alternatives, buy and consume these adulterated food items and end up suffering from various diseases. Adulteration is not limited to foods served at hotels and restaurants—it affects a wide range of essential commodities, including fruits and vegetables. Unscrupulous traders often spray chemicals on these perishable goods to preserve their appearance for longer periods.
These harmful chemicals pose a serious health risk to the general public. Since people have no choice but to buy these items, they unknowingly fall victim to this dangerous practice. As a result, they may suffer from serious health issues such as food poisoning, liver and kidney damage, cancer, and other chronic diseases.
To tackle this alarming problem, the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) has recently launched a nationwide campaign to stop food adulteration. The organization has identified and fined several restaurants for selling adulterated food and operating in unhygienic conditions. In some cases, restaurant owners have even been arrested. However, despite these actions, the problem still persists.
We must remember that health is wealth. No one can expect to succeed in life without good health. Widespread food adulteration creates an unhealthy population, which becomes a major obstacle to national progress and prosperity.
To combat this social menace, both the government and various socio-cultural organizations must come forward with strong initiatives. Strict monitoring, heavy penalties, mass awareness campaigns, and public cooperation are essential to curb food adulteration and build a healthier and happier nation.
