BSTI to verify findings before taking action 

Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) has launched an investigation after a recent study by a private research organisation detected microplastics in most of the toothpaste samples it tested, raising concerns over potential public health and environmental risks.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, BSTI said it was treating the matter with the utmost importance.

According to the agency, the study found the presence of microplastics in 26 of 34 toothpaste samples analysed.

BSTI said it has begun collecting samples from both the market and manufacturing facilities for independent testing at accredited laboratories in Bangladesh or abroad. If the tests confirm that any product fails to meet Bangladesh's standards or contains unauthorised ingredients, legal action will be taken against the manufacturers in accordance with existing laws.