TBT DESK: Speakers at a discussion have underscored the importance of a clear labelling system on product packaging, allowing the 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 labelled substances, establishing the labelling process, and assigning an approving authority to oversee regular monitoring, coordination, and enforcement for effective implementation.
The discussion titled "Ensuring information on the ingredients of packaged food for health protection and what to do to control advertisements of unhealthy food" was jointly organised by Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) and the Center for Law and Policy Affairs (CLPA) at the Conference Hall of the BMU's Super Specialised Hospital recently, said a BMU press release on Saturday.
Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, BMU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Mujibur Rahman Hawlader said, "We must consider whether we are unknowingly purchasing and consuming poison in the name of food."
Ensuring safe food is essential for good health, he said, emphasizing 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 the labelling 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 that contribute to tooth decay.
Prof Dr Mohammad Shoyeb, a member of Bangladesh Safe Food Authority, described the Safe Food Act as a robust legal framework, saying packaging regulations have been introduced under this law but research suggests many businesses are failing to comply with it.
The Food Safety Authority, he said, is actively working to enforce proper labelling on food packaging.
Ruhul Kuddus of the Global Health Advocacy Incubator underscored the need for the Food Safety Authority to be in leadership in ensuring food quality and proper packaging regulations.
Barrister Nishat Mahmud highlighted that the constitution prioritizes public health, affirming that access to safe food is a fundamental right.
Public health expert, journalist, and researcher Sushant Sinha called for stricter monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective enforcement of the Food Safety Act.
Prof Dr Saidur Arefin stressed the importance of raising public awareness about safe food practices.
Besides, Dr AFM Sarwar recommended that health warnings on food packaging should be designed in a way that is clear and easily understandable for the citizens of Bangladesh.

The meeting was chaired by Dr Atiqur Haque, Chairman of the Public Health Department at Bangladesh Medical University, with representatives from various organizations sharing their insights.
The CLPA presented its study on the packaging and labelling of sugary drinks and chips. The study finds no health warnings on sugary drinks and chips, while marketing data underscores their widespread promotion, with nearly every store featuring advertisements for them. Additionally, 70 % of shopkeepers receive commissions for extra sales, while 52 % of stores have branded refrigerators and 36 % display branded signboards.//