Authorities in Rajshahi fined a sweet shop Tk 20,000 for producing and selling sweets without the necessary quality certification from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI). The operation, led by Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate Nurul Absar Sabuj, discovered that Arafat Mishti, situated near Bhadra More, was operating without the required BSTI approval. The shop was also found to be selling products with expired BSTI certification and without proper labeling, violating food safety regulations.
The BSTI raid uncovered several violations at Arafat Mishti. The shop was producing and selling sweetmeats without BSTI certification, manufacturing fermented milk (doi) and ghee using expired BSTI approval, and selling products without the mandatory labels detailing the dates of manufacture and expiry. The prosecution was handled by Engineer Junaid Ahmed from the Certification Marks Wing of the BSTI Divisional Office, with assistance from members of the Rajshahi Metropolitan Police.
The BSTI emphasized that such enforcement actions will continue regularly to prevent food adulteration and ensure the quality of food products supplied to consumers. This crackdown highlights the importance of adhering to food safety standards and obtaining proper certifications to operate within the food industry.
The fine imposed on Arafat Mishti serves as a reminder for food businesses in Bangladesh to comply with BSTI regulations. This action is crucial for protecting public health and maintaining the integrity of the food supply chain in the country.
