Despite a government ban effective since August 1, 2023, open-drum soybean and palm oil continue to be sold widely across Bangladesh, including in Dhaka’s wholesale and retail markets. Consumers and small businesses prefer open oil because it is cheaper and can be purchased in flexible quantities. However, experts warn that such oil poses serious health risks due to contamination, lack of vitamin A fortification, and use of non-food-grade plastic drums.

Studies cited in the report show that 65 percent of edible oil in the market is sold in drums, with 59 percent lacking vitamin A enrichment and 34 percent containing insufficient levels. The absence of labeling and source information makes it impossible to trace the oil’s origin. Health experts link vitamin A deficiency to blindness in children and increased maternal mortality, urging coordinated government action to ensure safe, fortified oil.

Advocacy group PROGGA and nutrition specialists have called for strict enforcement of the ban and public awareness campaigns, warning that continued sale of open-drum oil threatens both public health and national nutrition security.