Staff Reporter, Dhaka : Fisheries and Livestock State Minister Sultan Salauddin Tuku today said that there is no alternative to increasing social awareness at every level to ensure food safety for all. “Coordinated efforts from both government and private organisations are essential to protect public health and ensure a sustainable food system,” he said.

The state minister made the remarks while addressing the 8th National Scientific Conference on “Food Safety and Health” as the chief guest.

The conference, themed “Ensuring Safe Food for a Sustainable Future”, was organised by the Bangladesh Society for Safe Food (BSSF) at the Dhaka Regency Hotel and Resort in the capital this morning.

​ The state minister noted that the uncontrolled use of harmful elements and antibiotics in food poses a severe threat to public health. Highlighting the critical role of research, he urged scientists to intensify activities focused on preserving biodiversity and natural resources.

​”Bangladesh was once known as the land of ‘Maach-e-Bhate Bangali’. We must take effective measures to boost fish production and protect aquatic biodiversity,” he added.

​ Referring to the national vision, the State Minister said that although meeting the food demand of a large population is a challenge, the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working tirelessly to ensure a safe, nutritious, and sustainable food system for future generations.

​ Addressing social issues, he expressed concern over the drug menace, calling it a major social crisis. He urged families, society, and the state to work in unison to protect the youth and steer the nation toward the right path.

​Presided over by BSSF President Professor Dr Md. Khaled Hossain, the event was attended by Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md. Shahzaman Khan and Chairman (Additional Charge) of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar as special guests.

​President of the Bangladesh Poultry Industries Central Council (BPICC) Moshiur Rahman was present as a guest of honour. Dr Md Monirul Islam, former Member Director (Fisheries) of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, presented the keynote paper.

​Researchers, scientists, and food safety experts from various universities were also present at the conference.