Trials for milk distribution were earlier carried out by the ministry in Jakarta, West Java, and East Java, in cooperation with five milk producer cooperatives.
In a statement issued here on Tuesday, Cooperatives Minister Budi Arie Setiadi informed that in the initial stage, 2,348 liters of pasteurized milk will be distributed through five nutritional fulfillment service units (SPPG) to 10,375 students in 27 schools and Islamic schools.
"Pasteurized milk is more affordable but still high in nutrition because it contains proteins, minerals, and vitamins that are needed for children's growth," he explained.
In the trial in East Java's Malang district, 802 liters of milk from the Kan Jabung Malang Cooperative were distributed to 3,047 students using dispensers, which are more hygienic and environmentally friendly than single-use packaging.
In addition, the milk provision underwent feasibility tests and was supervised by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM).
Minister Setiadi emphasized that the move will not only benefit children, but also strengthen cooperatives and improve the welfare of farmers through market guarantee and production absorption.
"Cooperatives and farmers will benefit from market certainty, while regular milk consumption will improve children's intelligence and health," he said.
Based on the results of the trials, the Ministry of Cooperatives will continue to evaluate and develop the cooperatives' pasteurized milk distribution scheme so that its benefits can reach wider coverage in Indonesia.
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Translator: Ahmad Muzdaffar, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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