Experts call for better food safety management

Speakers said that special investment alongside strong role of the authority is needed for ensuring better food safety management.

They made the remarks at a round table, on the use of chemicals in fruits, organised by Bangladesh Safe Agro Food Efforts (BSAFE) Foundation in Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) premises on Monday.

Md Abdus Sobhan, General Secretary of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (BAPA), said, “We are not confident in the existing food authority as it is detached from the citizens. Failure of preventing food adulteration and quality presents their failure, as well as that of the government's.”

Director of Nutrition Unit of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) Monirul Islam said, “We are taking decision based on emotion, but it should be done based on research. Artificial ripening is not bad for the health. The amount of using Ethylene and other chemicals in fruits and vegetables should be monitored scientifically.”

Chairman of Bangladesh Safe Food Network Mohidul Islam also spoke at the event.

Former Agriculture Secretary Anowar Faruk conducted the opinion exchange meeting.