They also demanded amendment to existing laws incorporating punitive measures to ensure quality food.

The rally was organised by Puran Dhaka Paribesh Unnayan Forum in cooperation with Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (Bapa) in front of the prison department at Urdu Road in the city.

The speakers said people are suffering from various ailments apart from malnutrition due to low quality of food.

Besides, the intake of harmful colours and chemicals by the children makes the future generation devoid of energy and intellect, they added.

The speakers blamed dishonest businessmen and certain quarters in the government administration for the lack of discipline in maintaining food standards.

They stressed the need for building an effective administrative infrastructure to protect the rights of the consumers.

The speakers also demanded ban on the use of harmful colours, chemicals and preservatives in various foodstuffs.

Besides, the use of chemical fertilisers and insecticides in agricultural products should also be restricted, they added.

Presided over by Dr Najmul Ahsan Kolimullah, the rally was addressed by Ward Commissioners Anowar Parvez Badal and Altaf Hussein, Bapa's Joint Secretary Mihir Biswas and Executive Member Kazi Md Shish, Dr Abdul Hai Mojumder, Ashraf Amirullah, Nazimuddin and Aminul Islam Don.

A human chain was also formed on this occasion.