The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has decided to temporarily cease the operation of its Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) due to the discovery of substandard food in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. Redy Hendra Gunawan, Special Staff to the BGN, stated in Jakarta that the affected SPPG units will remain closed until a thorough investigation is conducted and MBG food samples are tested in the laboratory. BGN is working with independent institutions, local health departments, and education departments to identify the cause of the issue and closely monitor the health of the affected students. The agency expressed deep regret to the students, parents, schools, and all parties impacted by the incident, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards any negligence in providing MBG meals that may compromise the health of beneficiaries. Stricter partner screening, enhanced hygiene standards, improvements in the supply chain, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are among the corrective measures being implemented. BGN is committed to ensuring that the MBG Program adheres to food safety standards and provides benefits without compromising health, with the support of stakeholders. This incident serves as a valuable lesson for future enhancements in the program.
BGN Temporarily Suspends Nutrition Service in East Nusa Tenggara
