Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Md. Abdus Salam on Saturday called for a nationwide social movement involving people from all walks of life to build awareness and ensure a safe, adulteration-free food system.
He made this call while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held at the Capital Market Journalists Forum Auditorium in the capital’s Bijoynagar area, marking World Food Safety Day and the 6th founding anniversary of the Food Safety Movement. The meeting was organised by the Food Safety Movement.
Abdus Salam said ensuring food safety is directly linked to public health and cannot be achieved through government enforcement alone.
“Special drives and mobile courts are important, but they are not enough. The biggest obstacle to ensuring food safety is the lack of public awareness. Producers, traders, consumers and all stakeholders must work together to establish a safe and reliable food system,” he added.
He urged organisers to expand food safety awareness campaigns beyond seminars and conferences by engaging people in mosques, madrasas and other public spaces. He also stressed involving food courts, street food vendors, and small-scale food businesses in such initiatives.
Highlighting what he described as a decline in social values, Abdus Salam said voluntary organisations, cultural groups, clubs and libraries once played a vital role in promoting ethical responsibility in society.
“Today, the decline of such activities has weakened public awareness and humanity. If we can build a more responsible and ethical society, the production and sale of adulterated food will naturally decline,” he said.
Referring to the growing number of roadside and mobile food vendors in the capital, he emphasized the need to ensure proper hygiene, sanitation, and safe water use in food preparation.
“Business activities should continue, but they must operate within a disciplined, hygienic and health-friendly environment,” he said.
He also noted the DSCC has been conducting regular mobile court drives, inspections, and awareness campaigns to improve food safety in the city.
“I want to be part of this social movement for safe food. Continue this initiative, and the city corporation will stand beside you as a partner, extending full cooperation,” he assured.
The meeting was chaired by Prof. Dr. Mahmudul Islam Selim, acting president of the Food Safety Movement.
Speakers called for stronger monitoring mechanisms and strict enforcement of food safety laws to protect public health and ensure safe food for consumers.
