Rajshahi, Jan 14 (V7N)- Rajshahi's jaggery production industry is facing scrutiny after alarming revelations about the use of adulterants and harmful chemicals. Investigations have uncovered that jaggery, a popular sweetener, is being produced using low-quality sugar imported from India as cow feed, combined with dangerous substances like hydrogen peroxide (hydrose) to enhance its appearance and density.

Health Hazards of Adulterated Jaggery

The Rajshahi Food Safety Authority tested 10 samples of jaggery, all of which were found to contain harmful substances, including:

  • Hydrogen peroxide, a chemical linked to cancer and kidney disease.
  • Detergents and alum, which can cause ulcers, liver disease, kidney failure, and even kidney cancer when consumed over time.

Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, a professor at Rajshahi Medical College, warned,
"The adulterants used in jaggery are highly toxic. Prolonged consumption can lead to esophageal and stomach ulcers, liver damage, and various forms of cancer."

The Scale of Adulteration

According to the Sonamasjid Land Port Authority, imports of "cow feed sugar" have surged:

  • November 2024: 300 trucks (12,000 tons).
  • December 2024: 600 trucks.
  • January 2025 (first 11 days): 140 trucks.

At a jaggery factory in Baneshwar, it was observed that adulterants such as dalda, flour, lime, and alum are mixed with date juice and low-quality sugar during production. The process is reportedly widespread in Puthia, Durgapur, Charghat, and Bagha upazilas, where weak oversight allows these practices to continue unchecked.

Economic and Agricultural Context

Rajshahi is home to approximately 11.08 lakh date palm trees, which can produce up to 8.8 million kg of pure jaggery annually, with potential sales exceeding 150 crore taka. However, the adulteration of jaggery threatens the reputation of this significant local industry.

Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension, Ms. Umme Chalma, clarified,
"Farmers produce pure jaggery. The irregularities occur at the commercial level, where businesses prioritize profit over public health."

Urgent Need for Action

Food safety officer Md. Yamin Hossain confirmed previous findings of alum and detergent in jaggery and announced plans for further testing this year. Despite these efforts, a lack of stringent monitoring has allowed the adulteration to persist.

Public Awareness and Policy Changes Needed

This alarming situation calls for immediate intervention, including:

  • Stricter regulation of sugar imports labeled as cow feed.
  • Regular inspections of jaggery production facilities.
  • Public awareness campaigns to educate consumers on the risks of adulterated jaggery.
  • Support for farmers to ensure the market for pure jaggery remains viable.

Addressing these issues is vital to safeguard public health and restore trust in Rajshahi's iconic jaggery industry.

END/RA/AJ