Fisheries and Livestock State Minister Sultan Salauddin Tuku on Saturday stressed the need for greater public awareness to ensure food safety and protect public health across the country.
“There is no alternative to increasing social awareness at every level to ensure food safety for all,” he said while addressing the 8th National Scientific Conference on “Food Safety and Health” as chief guest in Dhaka.
The Bangladesh Society for Safe Food (BSSF) organised the conference at Dhaka Regency Hotel and Resort under the theme “Ensuring Safe Food for a Sustainable Future”.
Tuku said coordinated efforts from both government and private organisations remain essential to build a sustainable and safe food system.
He warned that the uncontrolled use of harmful substances and antibiotics in food production poses a serious threat to public health. He also urged researchers and scientists to intensify efforts to preserve biodiversity and natural resources.
Referring to Bangladesh’s traditional identity as the land of “Maach-e-Bhate Bangali”, the state minister emphasised the importance of increasing fish production and protecting aquatic biodiversity.
He said the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman continues working to ensure safe, nutritious and sustainable food for future generations despite the challenge of meeting the demands of a large population.
Tuku also expressed concern over drug abuse, describing it as a major social crisis. He urged families, society and the state to work together to protect young people and guide them towards a positive path.
BSSF President Prof Dr Md Khaled Hossain chaired the conference.
Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md Shahzaman Khan and Bangladesh Food Safety Authority Chairman Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar attended the event as special guests.
Bangladesh Poultry Industries Central Council President Moshiur Rahman joined as guest of honour, while former Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council member director Dr Md Monirul Islam presented the keynote paper.
Researchers, scientists and food safety experts from different universities also attended the conference.
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI
