Editorial
Hazardous chemical in sugar
A serious threat to public health
So-called "condensed sugar" with sodium cyclamate is being sold in the market, according to reports. Formerly known as D-sugar, it is selling under a brand name called "gold". The product is currently available at drug stores and grocery shops. The so-called sugar highly injurious to health is now being consumed among others by people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. Cyclamate being 50 percent sweeter than regular sugar, is used in a number of bakery products and ice creams.
No less than the Head of the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Dhaka has confirmed that intake of sodium cyclamate may even cause such deadly disease like cancer of the lungs, liver and the kidney.
Therefore, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had permanently banned the use of sodium cyclamate as early as in 1983. Sale of D-sugar had also been banned by the Drug Administration of the country in 1982, but to little avail.
Although from time to time due to periodic raids conducted by law enforcing agencies against adulterated foods there was a lull in the sale of the product; but for all practical purposes, its import continue unabated.
Against this backdrop, we urge the administration to investigate the matter fully in the light of newspaper reports and take stern action to eradicate sale and import of the product in any form. Clearly, the periodic campaigns against food adulteration have not been able to produce the desired result here.
It is our belief that this matter can be best dealt with through well coordinated efforts of the Drug Administration, the Ministry of Commerce and the Departments of Customs.
We are concerned and urge the government to take necessary measures.
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