"This activity involves training on proper food handling — even how to serve food so that not a single hair gets into it," said Suardi Samiran, BGN Deputy for Provision and Distribution, on Tuesday.
He explained that the training also serves as a preventive measure against potential food poisoning incidents in the program, with the involvement of various agencies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Control (BPOM).
"Long before the recent food poisoning incident, food handler training had already been conducted to anticipate such risks," he said.
Samiran emphasized that all individuals working in the kitchens — especially those involved in cooking — received intensive training to ensure the meals are healthy and safe for MBG beneficiaries.
"This is part of our effort to ensure a healthy community, starting with those who prepare and serve the meals. That's why BPOM and all related parties are involved," he added.
The training program is carried out in collaboration with various institutions, including UNICEF, local health offices, BPOM, and the Indonesian Association of Nutritionists (Persagi).
"It's divided into three regions — west, central, and east — with each overseen by a regional director. This structure will certainly help improve the MBG program," Samiran said.
BGN has also issued regulations, standard operating procedures, and technical guidelines for implementing the program, ensuring the quality and freshness of food prepared for children.
In addition, food preparation at the kitchens is closely monitored to ensure compliance with BGN's standards, including during the distribution process.
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Translator: Lintang Budiyanti Prameswari, Martha Herlinawati S
Editor: Anton Santoso
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