She stressed the importance of food safety following recent reports of health problems experienced by residents after receiving MBG menus in several regions, an issue she attributed to negligence in implementing the SOP.
"What needs to be done in the event of a shortfall is to evaluate the implementation of the SOP, not blame the MBG program per se. It is crucial to address errors and pursue improvements," Oka stated in Nusa Dua, Badung District, Bali, on Friday.
The deputy minister noted that although the government has set standards to ensure the quality and safety of free nutritious meals, some MBG kitchens, officially called nutrition fulfillment units (SPPGs), have deviated from those requirements.
"We already have the SOP. Hence, a poisoning case usually stems from failure to implement the set of requirements," she remarked.
In response to recent MBG-linked food poisoning cases, the ministry held a coordination meeting in early October with representatives from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), the Ministry of Health, and the National Food and Drug Authority (BPOM).
Among the topics discussed was the government’s decision to require all SPPGs to secure several certificates, including those verifying their level of hygiene and sanitation (SLHS).
"The certification process is ongoing," Oka said.
According to BGN data, 198 SPPGs had obtained SLHS certificates as of September 30.
The Health Ministry has issued a circular instructing leaders of all provincial, district, and municipal health offices, as well as SPPGs, to facilitate and fast-track certification.
Launched in January 2025 as one of President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship programs, MBG has catered to the nutritional needs of more than 30 million people nationwide as of October, including schoolchildren, breastfeeding mothers, pregnant women, and toddlers.
This achievement has been supported by over 10 thousand SPPGs established by the BGN and its partners.
Despite the program’s reach, challenges remain. The Health Ministry recorded 60 food poisoning cases linked to MBG as of mid-September, affecting 5,207 people.
Meanwhile, the BPOM reported 55 cases involving 5,320 victims as of September 30, with West Java accounting for the highest number.
Related news: BGN deploys 5,000 chefs to strengthen free meal kitchens nationwide
Related news: Ensuring continuous improvement in Free Nutritious Meals program
Related news: BPJS to cover MBG food poisoning medical costs
Translator: Dewa K, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
