We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Understanding public health risk from unsafe dry fish consumption in Bangladesh
Summary
Researchers surveyed 415 participants across Bangladesh to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding health hazards from dried fish consumption. They found that most respondents had limited awareness of harmful substances in dried fish, with over 77% unaware of microplastic contamination, and many did not know proper storage methods. The study highlights the need for public health education about contaminants in dried fish, a dietary staple in coastal Bangladesh.
Dried fish holds a significant place in the Bangladeshi diet particularly for people living in coastal regions. However, there is a growing concern regarding its adverse effects on human health, as it contains high levels of illegal preservatives, heavy metals, and other harmful substances. In this study, we aimed to explore the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding health hazards due to unsafe dried fish consumption among people across the country. We conducted a cross-sectional study among consumers to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices about the health risks associated with consuming hazardous dried fish. We interviewed a total of 415 participants, of whom 52.8% were male; the majority were students (55.9%), aged between 18 and 30 years (63.9%), and living in urban areas (81.7%). Most of the participants (60.7%) had less accurate knowledge of the health hazards of unsafe dry fish, 92.8% had more positive attitudes to buying safe dry fish, and 26.8% used unsafe dry fish more frequently. Many respondents were unaware of the presence of harmful substances in dried fish, such as illegal pesticides (66.5%), microplastics (77.6%), and heavy metals (67.4%). A significant number of participants (13%) reported that they had a history of cancer in any of their family members. Many individuals (57.4%) were not familiar with the proper storage and preparation methods of dry fish. The majority of participants (81.4%) strongly prefer packed dried fish. Most of the respondents (67.7%) agreed to participate in awareness programs. Female consumers were more likely to have more accurate knowledge (AOR = 1.53; 95% CI = 1.03-2.29, p = 0.0.37) than males, and participants whose present residence were in rural were more likely to have accurate knowledge (AOR = 2.64; 95% CI = 1.30-5.36, p = 0.007) than those whose present residence were in urban or semi-urban areas. A targeted education campaign focused on improving awareness of the risks associated with eating unsafe dry fish is needed, particularly in coastal areas.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastic contamination in salted and sun dried fish and implications for food security – A study on the effect of location, style and constituents of dried fish on microplastics load
Researchers tested 21 species of dried fish from four locations in India and found microplastics in every sample, predominantly small fragments under 100 micrometers. The type and amount of microplastic contamination varied by location, fish species, and whether the fish was whole or eviscerated. The findings raise food safety concerns since dried fish is a dietary staple for many people in coastal regions.
Presence of microplastics in two common dried marine fish species from Bangladesh
Researchers examined two popular dried fish species from Bangladesh and found microplastics present in all samples, with fibers being the most common type. Fish from one collection site had significantly higher microplastic contamination than the other, suggesting location-specific pollution levels. The findings raise concerns about human dietary exposure to microplastics through commonly consumed seafood products in the region.
Occurrence of microplastics in commercial marine dried fish in Asian countries
Researchers examined 14 types of commercially available dried fish products from seven Asian countries and found microplastics present in all samples tested. The most common types were fibers and fragments, with polymers like polyethylene and polypropylene being frequently identified. The findings raise concerns about widespread human dietary exposure to microplastics through popular dried seafood products consumed across Asia.
Dried fish more prone to microplastics contamination over fresh fish – Higher potential of trophic transfer to human body
Researchers compared microplastic contamination levels in fresh versus dried fish from commercially important species in the Bay of Bengal. The study found that dried fish contained significantly more microplastics than fresh fish, likely due to environmental exposure during the drying process. The findings suggest that consuming dried fish may increase human exposure to microplastics through the food chain.
Microplastic pollution in edible marine fish from the northwestern Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh: A comprehensive assessment of occurrence, characteristics and associated ecological risks
Scientists found tiny plastic pieces in the stomachs of all fish species they tested from waters near Bangladesh, with each fish containing about 7 plastic particles on average. Since people eat these fish, this means microplastics are likely getting into our food chain, though more research is needed to understand what health risks this might pose. The study shows that plastic pollution has spread throughout marine ecosystems and is now a common part of seafood we consume.