The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has put a temporary halt on the operations of the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) due to the discovery of substandard food in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. Redy Hendra Gunawan, the Special Staff to the BGN, stated in Jakarta that the affected SPPG units will remain closed until the investigation is completed and the MBG food samples are thoroughly examined in the laboratory. BGN is working with independent institutions, local health and education departments to investigate the root cause of the issue while ensuring the health of the impacted students is closely monitored.
Apologies were extended by the National Nutrition Agency to the students, parents, schools, and all parties affected by the unfit food incident in the MBG Program, emphasizing their zero tolerance for any negligence in the procurement and distribution of MBG meals that could jeopardize the health of the recipients. The agency is collaborating with local government authorities to swiftly and effectively respond to the situation on the ground, viewing this incident as a crucial lesson for future enhancements.
Several corrective actions are currently being implemented, including stricter partner screening, enhanced hygiene standards, improvements to the supply chain and food quality monitoring, along with the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) based on expert recommendations and best practices. The National Nutrition Agency is dedicated to ensuring the MBG Program meets all food safety requirements and provides its intended benefits without compromising health. With the support and vigilance of all stakeholders, they believe the program can still effectively serve the people.
