National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended the operations of its Nutritional Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) due to the discovery of substandard food within the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Program. Redy Hendra Gunawan, Special Staff to the BGN, stated that the affected SPPG units will remain closed until the investigation is completed and MBG food samples are thoroughly tested in the laboratory. The agency is collaborating with independent institutions, local health, and education departments to determine the cause of the incident and ensure the health of affected students is closely monitored.
BGN apologizes to the students, parents, schools, and all impacted by the unfit food in the MBG Program, emphasizing zero tolerance for negligence in the procurement and distribution of MBG meals. The health and safety of all MBG recipients are the top priority of the agency, with efforts underway to strengthen partner screening, enhance hygiene standards, improve the supply chain, and develop SOPs based on best practices to ensure food safety.
The agency is working closely with local government authorities to swiftly and effectively respond to the situation on the ground. Lessons learned from this incident will drive future improvements in the program to avoid similar issues. By maintaining food safety standards and delivering intended benefits without compromising health, BGN is committed to the success of the MBG Program with the support and vigilance of all stakeholders.
