Agriculture in Bangladesh has remained subsistence-based, with inconsistent crop yields, underdeveloped infrastructure, and a reduction in arable land due to urban expansion all contributing to food insecurity. These problems must be addressed to advance the food security and safety of the nation. A high economic growth rate of about 8%, with the service sector contributing approximately 50% of the gross domestic product (GDP), along with urban population growth and spending is increasing the demand for processed and high-quality food in the country.

The objective of this project was to assess foodborne pathogen detection capacity and lay a foundation for implementing a science- and risk-based approach in the detection and design of controls for microbial food safety hazards. A landscape assessment and primary stakeholder consultations were carried out to understand the current status and identify key gaps and challenges. The report presents a brief analysis of the current food safety system and the status of food safety implementation. The report also emphasizes the food testing needs of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and possible interventions to address the gaps. The report is based on the information gathered during primary stakeholder consultations (Appendix 1) as well as secondary research.