Nanik S. Deyang said kitchens must now start cooking at 2 a.m. or later, timed according to delivery schedules for different school levels, from early childhood to high school.
“They cook meals in batches—morning meals for kindergartens, then for elementary schools,” she explained in Jakarta.
The agency has taken firm action against kitchens that violate operating procedures.
“We have closed 112 kitchens pending evaluation due to noncompliance,” Deyang said.
Investigations revealed many kitchens lack proper air conditioning, risking food spoilage.
Related news: BGN trains 1,800 food handlers to improve free meals program safety
The regulation also mandates epoxy-coated floors to improve durability, waterproofing, and slip resistance, reducing contamination risks. Food tray washing areas must be separate from vegetable washing stations to prevent germs, she added.
BGN Head Dadan Hindayana previously confirmed that the Presidential Regulation on the free meal program (MBG) governance is complete. It includes administrative sanctions such as termination of operations for kitchens violating standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“These sanctions have already been applied to ensure compliance and maintain food safety,” Hindayana said.
The measures aim to improve the safety and quality of meals served to students across Indonesia, supporting government efforts to enhance nutrition and health among schoolchildren.
The free meal program provides nutritious food to beneficiaries nationwide, with strict oversight to ensure meals meet health and safety standards.
Related news: Indonesia trains 30,000 MBG food handlers to boost nutrition standards
Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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