By Sattaranjan Saha from Harirampur, Manikganj
Children and adolescents are facing serious health risks due to consuming foods mixed with harmful colors and chemical substances sold in village shops and local markets. Primary school students, unaware of the dangers, are attracted by colorful packaging and often consume expired food items. As a result, they are suffering from long-term stomach pain, allergies, and various other illnesses. These concerns were highlighted by Bappi Khan, a member of the Harirampur Upazila Green Coalition.
An awareness program was organized by Madhya Putail Government Primary School, the Green Coalition, and BARCIK to discuss the harmful effects of pesticides and chemically contaminated food. Teachers and students participated in a nature-themed drawing competition and an open discussion session. During the program, students presented a report titled, “Let Us Protect Our Health and Say No to Chemical Pesticides and Chemicals.”
Following the presentation, discussions were held by Khodeja Begum, Acting Head Teacher of Madhya Putail Government Primary School; Bappi Khan, member of the Harirampur Upazila Green Coalition; Satyaranjan Saha, Program Officer of BARCIK; and Shibani Chakraborty. The speakers emphasized the need for greater awareness regarding the food consumed by children and adolescents. In particular, they pointed out that children frequently consume food mixed with unapproved coloring agents that lack BSTI certification, especially from shops located near village schools.
Children and adolescents are suffering from chronic stomach diseases after consuming colored and expired food items such as juice, chocolate, chips, jelly, ice cream, and pickles sold in village shops. In addition, excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides is degrading soil health, and the use of chemicals in agriculture is increasing day by day. Vegetables grown with chemical fertilizers and toxins pose serious health risks to children and adolescents. This excessive chemical use is also threatening biodiversity, including birds, bees, frogs, and other beneficial insects.
Due to the unregulated and incorrect application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides by farmers, people are becoming increasingly affected by various diseases. Therefore, it is essential to raise awareness about the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Through increased awareness, the health of students can be protected, and both nature and biodiversity can be preserved. Everyone must come forward to protect life and nature.
