Jakarta – The National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) meets the highest food safety standards.
BPOM’s Head, Taruna Ikrar, emphasized that the agency is fully prepared to oversee each phase of the government initiative aimed at improving the nutrition of Indonesian children.
“From the outset, we have been actively involved in supporting and ensuring that the MBG program meets food safety standards. This is crucial so that Indonesian children receive healthy and quality food,” said Taruna.
As part of these efforts, BPOM has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). The collaboration aims to ensure that every stage of the food production, distribution, and consumption process within the MBG program adheres to stringent nutrition and food safety standards.
Taruna acknowledged the challenges posed by a national program of this scale.
“The timely distribution of food remains a challenge in some regions. Additionally, ensuring that food from over 30,000 production kitchens meets nutritional and safety standards is a significant challenge that we must overcome,” he explained.
He also highlighted the importance of preventing extraordinary events (KLB), such as food poisoning.
“With 82 million children as our target, we must ensure there is no contamination or consumption of unsafe food,” Taruna stressed.
Meanwhile, the Head of BGN, Dadan Hindayana, welcomed BPOM’s support in the program.
“We are pleased that BPOM is assisting us with monitoring, oversight, and evaluation, especially in terms of food hygiene and safety,” said Dadan.
The Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, also emphasized the importance of comprehensive oversight of the MBG program.
“Of course, oversight will be conducted by the National Nutrition Agency as the implementer. However, there are also nutrition experts who will assist to ensure that the MBG program truly meets nutritional standards,” he said.
Mu’ti further added that monitoring would not only cover health aspects but also financial aspects.
“Accountants are also involved to ensure the program’s accountability, from the food provision process to its distribution to children,” he explained.
According to Mu’ti, the MBG program’s goal is not only to improve children’s nutrition but also to support the school health program.
“In addition to enhancing character, the MBG program also strengthens the school health effort. We can measure aspects such as height, weight, and other health indicators,” he concluded.
