The findings in those SPPGs or MBG kitchens included moldy bread, rotten fruit, spoiled side dishes, and raw or rotten eggs.
The Deputy Head of the BGN, Nanik S. Deyang, stated in Jakarta on Saturday that the move was part of a non-negotiable quality control mechanism.
"We have zero tolerance for food standard deviations in this program. Every finding is immediately addressed by temporarily suspending operations for a comprehensive evaluation," she remarked.
Deyang noted that the decision was taken following a field verification process and hierarchical reports from regional oversight teams.
The evaluation covers not only the food products but also kitchen management, distribution chains, and quality control procedures.
"The MBG program concerns children's health and the state's credibility in guaranteeing nutritional intake. Therefore, our supervision is conducted strictly and transparently," she said.
In several cases, meals indicated as being below the quality standards were successfully recalled before reaching students. However, the BGN has proceeded with administrative sanctions to enforce standards and ensure systemic improvements across all providers.
"The suspended SPPGs can operate again only after all corrective recommendations have been met and they have successfully passed a re-verification process," she explained.
Targeting 82.9 million beneficiaries nationwide, the MBG program was launched by the Indonesian government on January 6, 2025, aimed at improving the nutritional status of children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren up to the high school level.
The government is planning to expand the program to cover older adults and people with disabilities this year.
Related news: BGN mandates supplier diversification for free meals program
Related news: BGN narrows Bali free meals scope during Chinese New Year break
Related news: Indonesia prioritizes pregnant women, toddlers in free meal program
Translator: Mecca Yumna, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
