Fines fail to contain unabated production of unhygienic vermicelli in Thakurgaon

Unhygienic production of vermicelli continues in parts of Thakurgaon despite fines imposed by the authorities, raising concerns about food safety ahead of Eid, when demand for the popular food item rises significantly.

With Eid approaching, vermicelli factories across the district have increased production. However, some factories have allegedly been producing fried (laccha) and plain (Shada) vermicelli in unsanitary conditions, posing potential health risks to consumers.

During recent inspections, authorities found vermicelli being produced in dirty environments and quickly packaged without proper hygiene measures. In some cases, plain vermicelli was seen being dried in open spaces exposed to dust and insects.

Such conditions were reportedly observed at factories in Rahimanpur union of the sadar upazila, including a facility operated by Aduri Group of Industries, as well as other factories in Shahapara and Goalpara areas of the district town.

Authorities recently fined Aduri Food Tk1 lakh following an inspection that confirmed the allegations. However, locals claim that production has continued in the same manner despite the penalty.

Residents have urged the administration to take stricter action, including sealing factories if unsafe production practices continue. They also called for regular monitoring of all food factories in the district to ensure public health safety.

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Locals further alleged that vermicelli produced in unhygienic conditions is being distributed to different parts of the district and that many workers in these factories lack basic health safety equipment. They believe the lack of regular monitoring has encouraged such practices.

Osman Ali Palash, manager of Aduri Group of Industries, acknowledged that there might have been minor shortcomings and said efforts were being made to improve the production environment.

Mahmudul Kabir, an official from the district office of Directorate of National Consumer’s Right Protection, confirmed that Aduri Food had been fined Tk1 lakh and warned that if such practices continue, recommendations could be made to shut down the factory.

He added that the factory remains under observation.

Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Khairul Islam said drives against such factories would continue to ensure safe food for consumers.

According to the district business association, there are more than 20 vermicelli factories in Thakurgaon Sadar upazila, each producing on average more than 10 maunds of various types of vermicelli daily.