Grameen Danone Fined Tk 3 Lakh for Food Rule Violations

A mobile court in Shahjahanpur upazila has fined Grameen Danone Foods Limited BDT 300,000 following allegations of multiple violations of food safety regulations at its dairy processing facility in Betgari and Banani areas.

The operation was conducted on Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM by the Upazila administration in coordination with the National Food Safety Authority. The drive aimed at monitoring compliance with the Safe Food Act, 2013.

During the inspection, authorities found that colorants and flavoring agents used in the “Plain Yogurt” branded product were not properly declared on the packaging label.

In another product labeled “Fortified Sour Yogurt,” investigators identified the use of STPP (sodium tripolyphosphate), which was also not disclosed in the ingredient list. Officials noted that the substance may pose health risks for diabetic, pre-diabetic, kidney patients, and children if consumed inappropriately.

Additionally, field laboratory testing of raw milk samples reportedly detected traces of tetracycline and beta-lactam antibiotics. Further confirmatory laboratory analysis has been initiated.

The mobile court was led by Executive Magistrate and Assistant Commissioner (Land) Jannatul Ferdous Urmi under Section 32(a) of the Safe Food Act, 2013. The fine was imposed and immediately realized on site.

Officials from the food safety authority, including Inspector Md. Faruk Hossain and Officer Md. Rasel, were present during the operation. Law enforcement from Shahjahanpur Police Station provided security support.

Grameen Danone Foods Limited is a joint social business venture established in 2006 between Bangladesh’s Grameen initiative and French multinational dairy company Danone.

The project was inspired by Nobel Laureate economist Muhammad Yunus and then Danone CEO Franck Riboud, following discussions in 2005 on using a “social business” model to address child malnutrition in Bangladesh.

The initiative was designed to produce affordable fortified yogurt for low-income communities while supporting local milk sourcing and rural livelihoods. Its flagship product, “Shokti Doi,” was introduced as part of this nutrition-focused model.

Authorities have instructed the company to ensure strict compliance with national food safety regulations and maintain proper labeling and quality standards in future production.