7 crore fecal bacteria in one plate of phuchka, shocking information from consumer rights officer

Recently, in a discussion, Director (Dhaka Division) of the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate, Abdul Jabbar Mandal, highlighted these issues.

He said that rumors like plastic eggs or plastic rice being spread in the market have no real basis. Because the cost of making these products with plastic is much higher than ordinary food items. Therefore, instead of being panicked by such rumors, importance should be given to actual food safety issues.

He informed that one of the most concerning issues in the market is the use of harmful textile colors in food. Many restaurants, sweet shops, and food manufacturing establishments use colors used in industries to enhance the appeal of food, which is extremely harmful to the human body.

Regarding street food, he said that popular many foods, being prepared in unhealthy environments, contain harmful bacteria and fecal germs. So, one must be cautious when eating outside.

Sharing the experience of raids conducted in restaurants, Abdul Jabbar Mandal said that various irregularities are found in many establishments, such as storing stale food, keeping raw and cooked food in the same fridge, and unhealthy kitchens. If cockroaches, dirty environments, or violations of hygiene rules are seen in any restaurant, consumers should protest immediately.

He further said that if any consumer falls ill after eating food, they can seek legal remedy by preserving necessary evidence, including the hospital medical report.

He informed that to report violations of consumer rights, complaints can be made not only by calling the 16121 hotline but also from home through the website and mobile app of the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate.

Regarding online shopping, he advised verifying the permanent address of the establishment, customer reviews, and credibility. At the same time, he urged to open the packet in the presence of the delivery person at the time of receiving the product and, if possible, to use the cash on delivery method.

In daily shopping, he advised checking the weight and quality when buying fish, meat, or chicken, as well as preserving the cash memo for each purchase. According to him, the cash memo serves as important evidence for any legal complaint or claim for compensation.

Abdul Jabbar Mandal said that being aware as a consumer is the most effective way to avoid fraud. If any irregularity is noticed, not remaining silent but filing a complaint through legal process and being aware of one's own rights will help build a safe market system.