BSTI bans 8 products from 4 companies over safety violations

Eight products from four popular companies—ranging from ice cream to cosmetics—have been found to contain ingredients posing health risks. Laboratory tests revealed harmful bacteria in some products, excessive preservatives in others, and a deficiency of essential nutrients in a few. In response, the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) has ordered the immediate withdrawal of these products from the market.

Additionally, the production, sale and supply of these items have been completely banned until their licences and approvals are renewed.

The BSTI confirmed the matter on Monday (July 20).

The BSTI stated that 'Aamer Achar' (mango pickle) from Fresh Garden Agro Resources contains harmful preservatives at levels far exceeding the permitted limit, posing a serious health hazard. Popular brand 'Belissimo' ice cream from Kazi Food Industries Limited—specifically the 'Rotondo Hazelnut Coated Chocolate' variant—was found to contain non-fat total milk solids at levels exceeding the national standard.

The most alarming findings came from cosmetic products. Skin lotion, face wash and shampoo from Olive Bangladesh Limited's 'Labonya' brand were found to contain microorganisms or bacteria harmful to the human body. These harmful germs were detected in Labonya's Milk Skin Lotion, Aloe Vera Skin Lotion, Face Wash Moringa+Matcha, Foaming Milk and Tulsi Face Wash, as well as the Aloe Vera variant of the shampoo.

Additionally, the Vitamin C content in 'Deku Fruit Fanda' soft drink powder—in mango and orange flavours from Deku Foods Limited—was found to be significantly below the required level.

Prioritising consumer and public health, the BSTI has directed all dealers, distributors and retailers nationwide to immediately remove these products from the market.

The BSTI warned that strict monitoring will be carried out at the field level to ensure compliance, and any negligence or violation of the law will result in severe punitive action against the companies concerned.

BSTI Director General Kazi Imdadul Haque urged consumers to remain vigilant, advising them to check the BSTI logo, licence number, date of manufacture and expiry date before purchasing any product. He also requested the public to promptly inform BSTI authorities of any suspicions of product quality issues or forgery.