Dhaka: The government will take necessary steps in the public interest over the presence of microplastics in most toothpastes available in Bangladesh, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday. He made the remarks in response to a question at the government’s regular press briefing at the Secretariat on recent activities.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the adviser emphasized that the government is taking the issue of public safety very seriously. When questioned about potential government actions following the detection of microplastics in most toothpastes in the local market, Zahed Ur Rahman highlighted the widespread nature of microplastic contamination, which extends beyond oral care products.

‘Microplastics are not only found in toothpastes and they have spread like a major problem. Even if you do not use toothpaste containing them, microplastics generated from various sources have already entered our food and water,’ he said. He underscored the importance of coordinated action to effectively address the issue, suggesting that targeting toothpaste alone would not suffice in combating the pervasive spread of microplastics.

He also noted that public awareness about health issues is growing, with people raising concerns about microplastics extensively on social media. This indicates a rising consciousness among the public about the potential health risks associated with microplastics.

Recently, the Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) tested 34 toothpaste samples from 19 brands available in the Bangladeshi market. Its study found microplastics in 26 of the samples, or around 76.5 percent. The tiny plastic particles were also detected in several toothpastes marketed for children, raising further concerns about consumer safety.