Food adulteration and inadequate hygiene practices endangering public health in Bangladesh

Abstract

In recent times, one of the most pressing issues in some developing countries of Asia has been the persistent problem of food adulteration and poor hygienic conditions at every stage of food production and consumption. Since Bangladesh is a small, over populated country of Asia, this problem has become an emerging threat to public health. These problems have become increasingly severe, yet they remain unchecked, leading to a compromised immune system in the general population. All stakeholders, from manufacturers and processors to restaurants and fast-food outlets, are involved in this chain of corrupt practices. The use of toxic artificial colors and harmful chemicals is causing food adulteration, while a lack of awareness about food hygiene is leading to the prevalence of microbial contaminants in various foodstuffs, making them unhygienic and unhealthy for consumption. This review article aims to shed light on the food safety scenarios in Bangladesh, the factors responsible for the failure of food safety management, the possible impact on public health, and also will provide some recommendations to address this pressing issue.