Sale of adulterated and sub-standard vermicelli is going on ceaselessly in different markets of Rangpur district ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr, much to the worry of the consumers.
According to sources there are several hundreds illegal vermicelli factories in the city and at different upazilas in the district where low quality vermicelli is being produced in unhygienic ways and after manufacturing this vermicelli is supplied to different markets of the region.
A section of unauthorised factory owners are manufacturing sub-standard Lachchha Semai, Ghee Bhaja Semai and Sada Semai at different areas of the district including Jummapara, Station area, Babupara, Alamnagar, Shalbon, Mulatol, C.O Bazar areas in the city and in other upazilas including Mithapukur, Taraganj, Kawnia and Badarganj.
It is alleged that the unscrupulous factory owners are engaged in this unauthorised business without any hindrance by managing some unscrupulous officials of the concerned authorities.
This sorts of vermicelli is being produced using various toxic chemicals including different textile dyes, adulterated Palm-oil, Dalda, Mobil and chemicals made from animal fat which are detrimental to human health.
Some unauthorised vermicelli factory owners requesting anonymity said they are doing this business as law enforcing agencies are not so much strict and very seldom conduct drive in this regard.
Besides, some seasonal traders are also involved with the illegal activities aiming at cheating the poor and low-income consumers. They use the logo and title of some renowned industries, sources also added.
According to physicians toxic chemicals used to colour vermicelli are very much injurious to public health. It may damage kidney and liver of the consumers.
