Hidden Health Hazards: Analyzing Fat Content and Sodium in Packaged Bakery Goods in Dhaka, Bangladesh

This study analyzed 89 packaged bakery products (65 biscuits, 16 cakes, and 8 breads) from Dhaka, Bangladesh, using GC–FID and FAAS. Biscuits and cakes contained high mean total fat (19.52 and 18.08 g/100 g) and saturated fat (saturated fatty acid [SFA]) levels, with 81% of all samples classified as “High SFA.” The polyunsaturated-to-SFA (PUFA:SFA) ratio was below 1.0 in all biscuit and cake samples, whereas bread showed more favorable ratios. Sodium content was highest in biscuits (mean 421.08 mg/100 g), followed by cakes (326.31 mg/100 g) and bread (277.00 mg/100 g). The results demonstrate that commonly consumed biscuits and cakes in Dhaka have nutrient profiles high in saturated fats and sodium, indicating a potential cardiovascular health risk, whereas bread represents a comparatively safer dietary option.