"We have urged all MBG kitchens to ensure that all meals are processed and delivered within an acceptable time frame," BGN head Dadan Hindayana said during a meeting with Commission IX of the Parliament and the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He emphasized that enforcing a tighter schedule is necessary to ensure that the meals remain safe to eat upon arrival, particularly as most recipients are schoolchildren.
In addition, Hindayana highlighted that his agency has instructed all dedicated kitchens, officially known as nutritional fulfillment service units (SPPGs), to be more selective in procuring ingredients and raw materials to ensure that they are in an appropriate condition.
"The use of spoiled or inedible raw materials may cause health problems in the program's recipients. Therefore, we have moved to exercise greater caution during material procurement," he pointed out.
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The official then highlighted that the BGN has introduced stricter protocols for the handling of meals in schools, with a special focus on proper storage methods.
Justifying the initiative, Hindayana attributed recent MBG-related food poisoning cases to the long duration between meal delivery and consumption in schools.
He said that the BGN has made it mandatory for all SPPGs to carry out a pre-distribution organoleptic test, which evaluates the condition and quality of food based on its appearance, smell, taste, and texture.
"We have made it clear that meals showing signs of taste or texture deterioration must be withheld and replaced with proper substitutes," he added.
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Translator: Tri M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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