The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, which has only been running for a few months, has come under public scrutiny due to numerous cases of food poisoning and unpaid local vendors supplying free meals. Despite the controversy, a Nutrition Expert from the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM), Dr. Toto Sudargo, believes the program is worth supporting and holds great potential to address stunting if implemented in a targeted and professional manner.
While acknowledging its shortcomings, Dr. Sudargo explained that one of the keys to MBG’s effectiveness lies in targeting specific vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, toddlers, and adolescent girls.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring sufficient nutrition for adolescent girls so they can become healthy, non-anemic mothers in the future.
“Adolescent girls can be targeted in schools, while pregnant and breastfeeding mothers can be reached through partnerships with community health posts,” he said.
Furthermore, he stated that the program should provide at least one-third of daily nutritional needs, especially protein, which is essential for growth.
“Protein is a growth factor. That’s the most important because so far, what’s been fulfilled is mostly carbohydrates,” the expert explained.
However, the success of the program doesn’t solely depend on the quantity of food provided, but also on its quality and how well children accept it.
“MBG shouldn’t focus on volume, but quality. A small portion that’s fully eaten is better than a large one that’s left unfinished,” he said.
To address children’s often-picky eating habits, Dr. Sudargo suggested that MBG meals be made appealing and aligned with current food trends.
“Make small portions that are tasty, like meatballs or other trendy foods kids enjoy,” he recommended.
To make the program truly effective, he stressed the importance of involving nutritionists in every stage of planning and implementation.
He also advocated for a decentralized approach down to the village level to ensure better oversight and execution.
“Avoid using non-nutritionists, as they lack the expertise to design a menu from raw ingredients to the consumer’s plate,” he asserted.
Closing the interview, Dr. Sudargo expressed his hope for the future of the MBG program.
“My dream, God willing, is that this program continues to be evaluated and improved. Don’t criticize it too quickly; give it a year or two. If implemented consistently, we can prepare a healthier generation,” he concluded.
Author: Rahma Khoirunnisa
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photograph: Antara