"As part of our corrective and preventive efforts, the BGN will immediately tighten distribution procedures. The first step is to enhance safety protocols during the transport of meals from kitchens to schools," said BGN Head Dadan Hindayana in a statement issued on Saturday.
He explained that the second step involves reducing the maximum distribution time to ensure meals remain safe and edible upon arrival.
This will be followed by a third measure: implementing stricter food handling protocols at schools to ensure proper storage before consumption.
For the fourth step, Hindayana stated that BGN will set a fixed time window between delivery and consumption to minimize health risks.
The fifth measure introduces a mandatory organoleptic test—a method of evaluating food using the human senses—before meals are distributed.
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These enhanced measures follow recent food poisoning cases linked to the MBG program, reportedly affecting 367 students from elementary and junior high schools in Bandung City and Tasikmalaya District in West Java.
Regarding these incidents, the BGN head urged the public to await the results of the agency’s investigation and promised full transparency.
"We understand the public’s concern. Therefore, we ask people to remain calm and wait for the outcome of our investigation. The BGN will continue to provide information in an open and responsible manner," he said.
He also reaffirmed BGN’s commitment to maintaining public trust and ensuring that the MBG program fulfills its core mission of improving children's nutritional intake across Indonesia.
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Translator: Lintang B, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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