Despite assurances of safe food in the government’s midday meal program for primary school students, a disturbing incident occurred in Kuthirhat Government Primary School in Sonagazi Upazila, Feni. On Monday, students were served mouldy and rotten bread as part of their tiffin.
According to school and local sources, the contractor, Swadesh Palli, supplied bread for 151 students that morning. After distribution, at least 17 pieces of bread were found to be mouldy, and some emitted a foul odor. Upon noticing the issue, the school authorities immediately stopped further distribution, though a few students had already received the bread.
Parents and school authorities reacted strongly:
Rahima Akter, a parent of one of the students, said:
“Such low-quality, mouldy bread for children’s meals is unacceptable. This is a clear example of irresponsibility. Those involved must face strict punishment.”
The headteacher of Kuthirhat Government Primary School, Abu Tayeb, said:
“Out of 151 breads supplied for the students, 17 were found to be mouldy. Considering the safety of the young children, we immediately stopped distribution. The matter has already been reported to the upazila administration.”
Upazila Primary Education Officer Taherul Islam added:
“After learning about the incident, we have spoken to the parties involved. Negligence in children’s food is completely unacceptable. The contractor has been warned and assured that such incidents will not happen in the future.”
The incident highlights the urgent need for strict monitoring of school meal programs to ensure students receive safe and hygienic food.
