Illegal Dye Use in Baby Food Factory Fined

A mobile court in Bogura has imposed a substantial fine of Tk 500,000 on a food manufacturing establishment for producing baby food using prohibited textile dyes and for a series of other serious food safety violations. The action underscores the authorities’ renewed determination to protect public health, particularly that of infants and young children, from unsafe and adulterated food products.

The enforcement drive was conducted at around noon on Thursday, 5 February, by the Bogura District Office of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), with overall assistance from the district administration. The operation was carried out at a factory operated by Messrs Abid Traders, located in the Atapara area of the town.

During the inspection, officials uncovered alarming evidence of malpractice. The factory was found to be mixing banned textile dyes into baby food products, specifically tal misri (crystallised sugar), which were then packed in counterfeit and misleading packaging. Investigators also documented that food items were being produced in an unhygienic and filthy environment, posing a direct threat to consumer health. In addition to baby food, other popular items such as chanachur, shemai and bundia were being manufactured using harmful chemical colours not approved for human consumption.

The mobile court, led by Executive Magistrate Faisal Ahmed, concluded that the violations constituted a grave breach of the Safe Food Act. As a result, the court imposed and immediately realised a fine of Tk 500,000 from the offending company. Unsafe baby food products and related materials seized from the premises were destroyed publicly to ensure that they could not re-enter the market.

Officials emphasised that the use of industrial textile dyes in food is particularly dangerous, as such substances may contain toxic compounds unsuitable for ingestion and can cause serious health complications, especially in children whose immune systems are still developing.

Md Russell, an official of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, stated that such enforcement activities would continue in the greater public interest. He stressed that ensuring safe food for citizens remains a top priority of the authority. A team from the Bogura District Police provided security and logistical support during the operation, ensuring that the drive was carried out smoothly.

The incident has once again highlighted the need for strict monitoring of food manufacturers and greater consumer awareness regarding food safety standards.

Summary of Findings and Action

Authorities have reiterated that similar surprise inspections will be intensified to deter unscrupulous practices and to safeguard public health across the district.