Experts in Bangladesh have warned that exposure to light, air, and oxygen significantly reduces the nutritional value of vitamins A and D in fortified edible oils. They emphasized that transparent bottles allow ultraviolet rays to degrade these vitamins, while opaque or laminated packaging can effectively preserve their potency. The Ministry of Health’s Technical Advisory Committee conducted a national survey in 2025 on vitamin D levels among 2,481 people, revealing widespread deficiencies across age groups and pregnant women.

The survey results prompted a proposal for nationwide vitamin D fortification in edible oils, complementing existing vitamin A enrichment. The Ministry of Industry is awaiting formal recommendations from the Ministry of Health to proceed. Experts from organizations such as GAIN, the National Heart Foundation, and Progotir Jonyo Gyan highlighted that consumer preference for transparent packaging and manufacturers’ lack of awareness about light sensitivity remain major challenges.

Stakeholders called for stronger public awareness, inter-ministerial coordination, and mandatory use of opaque, light-resistant packaging to ensure the nutritional integrity of fortified oils and improve public health outcomes.