Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal program faces hygiene and poisoning scrutiny

The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program in Indonesia is facing intense scrutiny following multiple reports of food poisoning and hygiene failures. In Karo, North Sumatra, several students were hospitalized, with some being referred to RSCM Jakarta for specialized care at the request of Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin confirmed that medical teams are monitoring victims, including one student experiencing memory issues.

Regulatory actions are increasing across several regions. In Jember, the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) suspended 46 nutrition service units (SPPG) for failing to meet hygiene and sanitation certification (SLHS) standards. Similarly, in Yogyakarta, 14 SPPGs were suspended, including three linked to poisoning incidents. In Pati, inspections revealed inadequate cooking equipment and improper waste management, while Tulungagung has tightened monitoring of its 132 service units to prevent further health incidents.

Public and academic criticism is mounting. The Education and Teacher Association (P2G) has called for the resignation of the BGN head, arguing that the government should focus on safety rather than dismissing criticisms as political. Experts from Universitas Negeri Padang and Universitas Sumatera Utara have urged a comprehensive evaluation of the entire food supply chain, emphasizing that nutritional value must not come at the expense of food safety.