National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has decided to temporarily halt the operations 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 that the affected SPPG units will remain closed until the investigation is completed and the MBG food samples are thoroughly tested in the laboratory. The agency, in collaboration with independent institutions, local health, and education departments, is actively investigating the incident to determine the cause while ensuring the health of affected students is closely monitored. BGN expressed its sincerest apologies to the students, parents, schools, and all parties impacted by the unfit food found in the MBG Program, emphasizing zero tolerance for any negligence in the procurement and distribution of meals that could jeopardize the health of beneficiaries. As part of corrective measures, BGN is implementing stricter partner screening, enhancing hygiene standards, monitoring food quality, and establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) based on best practices and expert recommendations. The agency assures the public that the MBG Program will adhere to food safety standards and deliver benefits without compromising health. By working together with stakeholders, BGN aims to continue serving the community effectively with improved processes and vigilance.
