National Nutrition Agency investigates mass food poisoning in Karo

Hundreds of students in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, reportedly suffered food poisoning after consuming meals from the ‘Makan Bergizi Gratis’ (MBG) program on August 13, 2026. An investigation by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) suggests the incident was caused by negligence in food processing and storage.

BGN Head Sudaryono stated that approximately 200 to 300 fish intended for the meals were left at room temperature for 12 hours or more instead of being stored in a freezer. This failure to follow standard operating procedures (SOP) is being treated as a serious violation of food safety protocols.

As a result of the negligence, BGN plans to impose heavy sanctions, including the suspension of the kitchen facility and potential dishonorable discharge for the responsible official. Regarding the victims, reports indicate that some students, including one in intensive care (PICU) at Haji Medan Hospital, are beginning to show signs of improvement.