The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has decided to suspend the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) operations in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) after finding substandard food in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. Redy Hendra Gunawan, Special Staff to the BGN, stated that the affected SPPG units are on hold until further investigations are complete and food samples from the MBG program are thoroughly tested in the laboratory. BGN, in partnership with independent institutions, as well as local health and education departments, is actively investigating the incident while ensuring the health of the impacted students is closely monitored.
Apologies were extended by BGN to the students, parents, schools, and all parties affected by the unfit food discovered in the MBG Program. Emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards negligence in the procurement and distribution of MBG meals that could jeopardize the health of beneficiaries, Redy highlighted the importance of maintaining the health and safety of all MBG recipients as a top priority.
The agency is working closely with local government authorities to ensure swift and effective responses to the situation. Implementing corrective measures such as stricter partner screening, enhanced hygiene standards, improved supply chain and food quality monitoring, and establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) based on expert recommendations are currently underway to prevent such incidents in the future.
Redy concluded by emphasizing the agency’s commitment to upholding food safety standards within the MBG Program and ensuring its intended benefits without compromising health. With the collaboration and vigilance of all stakeholders, BGN believes in the continued effective delivery of the program for the community.
