Consumer-Driven Approaches to Food Safety in Bangladesh: Lessons from Japan

Author : Mohammad Khurshed Alam, Keiko Yoshino, Rie Miyaura, Fumie Takanash and Keisuke Nakakubo

Abstract :Bangladesh faces significant food safety challenges due to its reliance on agriculture and informal markets. While the government and development partners have initiated various programs, consumer awareness and engagement remain critical for sustainable improvements. Japan, on the other hand, has made remarkable progress in food safety through strong consumer initiatives. This study examines (a) the current status and challenges of agro-food safety in Bangladesh and (b) explores adaptable lessons from Japan’s consumer-driven food safety practices. The research combines a comparative survey of 400 respondents in Bangladesh’s capital region (conducted February–March 2024) with semi-structured interviews involving consumers, producers, traders, government officials, and experts. Japanese consumer movements were analyzed through secondary data. Findings reveal that 47% of Bangladeshi consumers are highly concerned about food safety, yet only 19% consistently check product labels, and just 9% trust the national food inspection system. Health concerns, chemical-free options, and freshness drive demand for organic products. Notably, 50% of surveyed consumers expressed strong interest in learning from Japan’s food safety practices, particularly in technology (33%) and inspection systems (30%)

Keywords :Agro-food safety, consumer initiative, Bangladesh, Japan, food security, organic food.

Conference Name :International Conference on Society, Economics and Urban Studies (ICSEUS-25)

Conference Place Sydney, Australia

Conference Date 26th Jun 2025