Fake food products threaten public health in Bangladesh, experts warn

Experts at a seminar in Dhaka have called for stricter monitoring to combat the growing problem of food adulteration and counterfeit products in Bangladesh, citing their serious impact on public health.

At the seminar titled “Effects of Counterfeit Products in Bangladesh Market and Their Impact on Human Health,” speakers revealed that counterfeit goods labelled as globally renowned brands are being locally produced and sold in Bangladesh. These fake products are linked to a rise in health complications, with many people developing diseases at an early age due to long-term consumption of such items.

The event was held on Monday at the Auditorium of the Economic Reporters’ Forum (ERF) in Paltan and jointly organised by the ERF and the Bangladesh Foodstuff Importers & Suppliers Association (BAFISA). The seminar aimed to raise awareness about the proliferation of counterfeit products and explore solutions to the problem through stricter enforcement, public education, and improved regulations.

Mohammad Alim Akhter Khan, Director General of the Directorate of National Consumers’ Rights Protection (DNCRP), attended the seminar as the chief guest. He emphasised that government agencies alone cannot ensure food safety without greater public awareness and ethical business practices.

Educational institutions and ethical learning play a key role in preventing food adulteration; sensitising businesses and fostering patriotism among citizens is crucial for meaningful change, said Khan.

BAFISA President Mohammad Borhan E Sultan presented data highlighting the alarming extent of fake products in the market. He demonstrated how counterfeit goods are labelled to imitate international brands, misleading consumers and undermining public trust.

Panelists at the seminar included Dr Mohammad Mostafa, a member of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), Mohammad Arafat Hossain Sarker, Deputy Director of the Bangladesh Standard and Testing Institution (BSTI), and Md. Anowar Hossain, General Secretary of BAFISA. Refayet Ullah Mirdha also contributed to the discussion.