Hi. There is a huge demand for bakery products and sweet foods in our daily diet. However, it is a matter of concern that food is being prepared in extremely unhygienic environments in many bakeries and sweet factories in the country. The use of unauthorized textile dyes, harmful chemicals, rotten eggs and the tendency of workers not to follow hygiene rules and uniforms has become a serious threat to public health. To prevent this anarchy, it is very important to find long-term solutions and strengthen government supervision.
Regular and surprise supervision operations
Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), National Consumer Protection Department and BSTI should conduct regular inspections at the district and upazila levels under the joint initiative of BSTI. If surprise operations are increased without prior announcement, unscrupulous traders will be forced to be careful. It is necessary to continue this supervision throughout the year, not just conducting operations focused on various festivals or special days.Strict punishment and licensing system
Just a small fine is not enough for the crime of mixing toxic colors or chemicals in food and preparing food in a dirty environment. In case of serious or repeated crimes, exemplary punishments such as sealing the factory, cancellation of license and imprisonment should be ensured. It should be made mandatory to verify the factory environment, waste management and hygiene of the workers every year before renewing the license.CCTV monitoring and tracking system
Installation of CCTV cameras in the production area and kitchen can be made mandatory. If the footage of these cameras is randomly checked by the local food safety office or the concerned authority, the employees will be forced to wear uniforms, masks, gloves and hairnets and the opportunity of using rotten or low-quality ingredients will be reduced.Mandatory training and health check of workers
Most of the workers involved in food processing do not have an institutional concept of hygiene. 'Food Handlers Certificate' course should be made mandatory for all factory workers under the food safety authority. In addition, workers must undergo physical examinations at regular intervals to ensure that they are not infected with any infectious diseases.Source and quality control of raw materials
The source of eggs, yeast, dalda and colors used in sweets and bakeries must be verified. The rules of using only approved 'food grade' chemicals and colors must be strictly implemented. If rotten eggs or banned chemicals are found in the factory, action must also be taken against the suppliers of raw materials.Public awareness and quick complaint handling
As consumers, the general public must be aware. They must refrain from buying food from unauthorized, expired or unhygienic environments. In addition, if citizens see irregularities in a factory, they must be able to easily take pictures or videos and report them through the national hotline (such as 16121) or app, making the system easier and more effective.
It is the fundamental right of citizens to have safe food. Strict government surveillance, technical supervision, goodwill of the owners and joint efforts of public awareness can ensure discipline and a healthy environment in bakeries and sweets factories.