Over the past two months, several cases of food poisoning from the free nutritious meal (MBG) program have occurred in various regions. These incidents are believed to be due to partners’ inexperience and the unhygienic condition of the food served to students.
According to media reports, an MBG poisoning incident occurred in Waingapu, East Sumba, on Feb. 24, when a school discovered that the chicken served was undercooked, even bloody.
Earlier, in mid-January in Sukoharjo, Central Java, students experienced vomiting after consuming MBG.
Professor Zullies Ikawati from UGM’s Faculty of Pharmacy emphasized the importance of the Food and Drug Administration (BPOM) in overseeing the MBG program.
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) focuses on nutrition, balanced nutrition, adequate energy, and macro- and micronutrient needs.
Meanwhile, BPOM is responsible for ensuring that the food provided is safe from microbial contamination, harmful substances, or quality standard violations.
Professor Ikawati explained that BPOM can monitor the preparation, production, and distribution processes to perform its duties.
During preparation, BPOM can test the raw materials used for the meals.
“Inspections of production and distribution facilities must also be carried out to ensure cleanliness and compliance with food safety standards,” she stated on Wednesday, Mar. 19, 2025.
The oversight function includes certifying food service providers to ensure they meet eligibility standards.
Once certification is implemented, periodic monitoring of production can be done through sampling methods.
During distribution, BPOM oversees the supply chain to prevent contamination during shipment.
What about food distribution to schools in remote areas? She acknowledged that delivering food to remote areas poses a unique challenge for BPOM’s oversight function.
Indonesia’s vast geography and varied terrain often result in longer delivery times than expected, increasing the risk of food spoilage.
“To address this, regional BPOM offices will supervise distribution according to regulations set by the central BPOM,” she explained.
BPOM does not work alone when carrying out its distribution monitoring.
Professor Ikawati mentioned that external parties can also be involved in the distribution process.
“Due to limited personnel, BPOM must collaborate with the community, government, and schools,” she said.
Collaboration between BPOM and the community extends beyond distribution.
Communities, schools, and parents can form food safety volunteer teams coordinated with BPOM.
BPOM will then educate the volunteer teams on safe and healthy food for students.
“Education and training for the community are essential to recognize safe food, helping them understand the quality of food provided,” she concluded.
Author: Tiefany
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang
Photograph by: Antara