Bangladesh is the 5th largest aquaculture-producing country in the world. However, the aquaculture industry is more focused on quantity than quality, which can result in several health issues and deter customers from eating fish. The goal of this study is to identify and examine the key challenges that consumers encounter while trying to obtain and consume safer seafood in Bangladesh. Understanding these limitations is vital for formulating effective strategies to enhance food safety and public health.
The data was gathered through in-depth interviews and surveys with 600 participants from various regions within Dhaka, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Bogura, Jashore, and Chattogram districts. The interviews provided qualitative insights, while the surveys measured the frequency and significance of each obstacle or limitation. The participants consisted of a diverse group of consumers from different socioeconomic classes to ensure a comprehensive representation of the public.
The findings reveal several significant challenges to the consumption of safer fish in Bangladesh. The lack of certification or labeling is identified as the most significant barrier, highlighting the urgent need for a uniform certification system that can provide consumers with confidence regarding the safety of the fish they purchase. Other major barriers include excessive pricing, mistrust towards certifying authorities, fake certifications, and urban-centric availability.
To overcome these challenges, a comprehensive strategy is needed. This strategy should involve the development of reliable certification systems, ensuring affordability, fostering consumer confidence through transparency, eradicating fraudulent certifications, and enhancing distribution networks to make safe fish readily available in rural regions