Jakarta – The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the quality of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) through a multi-layer verification system from upstream to downstream. This scheme is designed to ensure that every product received by students is safe for consumption, meets nutritional standards, and is distributed accurately and on time.
Auditor of the Papua Regional Police Inspectorate, Senior Commissioner Sandi Sultan, stated that the Kemala Bhayangkari Foundation of the Papua Regional Police ensures all MBG products pass quality testing and are suitable for consumption, as they have been examined by a nutrition team beforehand. The schools served are located in the North Jayapura District, Jayapura City, and to date, the meals provided have met students’ nutritional needs.
“They ensure that MBG products pass quality tests and are safe for consumption because they have been reviewed by the nutrition team. The schools we serve so far have received meals that meet the students’ nutritional needs,” he said.
Meanwhile, the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) explained that there are three layers of systems in place to safeguard MBG product quality. The first layer involves supplier pre-qualification through verification of business legality, food safety compliance, distribution permits, and adherence to quality and halal certification standards. Verification is also conducted on raw material sources, origin records, and cold chain readiness to maintain product quality from procurement to processing.
The second layer focuses on production and distribution processes. The government conducts periodic sampling tests for organoleptic, microbiological, and nutritional content in accredited laboratories. Each product batch must have a documented chain of custody and be equipped with a QR code to ensure traceability down to the service point at schools. This mechanism allows for quick tracking if any quality deviation is detected.
The third layer involves field supervision. Cross-agency teams conduct regular audits and unannounced inspections, including random sampling at production kitchens, warehouses, and distribution sites. The government has prepared an integrated complaint channel with a maximum response standard of 24 hours, accompanied by tiered sanctions for suppliers who violate regulations, ranging from warnings to contract termination.
Deputy Head of BGN, Sony Sonjaya, stated that this multi-layer verification system ensures MBG product quality remains consistent and safe for consumption. BGN will continue expanding the MBG Program to other regions gradually. The next phase will be launched with a more targeted mechanism based on national needs mapping results.
“Multi-layer verification means every MBG product goes through a traceable series of checks, leaving no compromise on safety and nutritional content,” he said.
To strengthen transparency, the government is developing a concise dashboard displaying the number of samples tested, compliance levels, audit findings, and corrective actions. Schools, parent committees, and community health centers (puskesmas) are involved in promoting hygiene education, food handling, and nutrition literacy to ensure quality is maintained up to the student level.
Meanwhile, Member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Siti Mukaromah, stated that the MBG program is not only related to fulfilling children’s nutritional needs but also has the potential to drive community economic growth. Consistent use of domestic products is expected to have a direct impact on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
“The hope is that the MBG program can create a multiplier effect that stimulates economic growth,” she said.
The government also invites public participation in joint monitoring efforts. The public can provide feedback and submit reports through official channels. With multi-layer verification in place, the MBG program aims to uphold the principles of safety, health, accuracy, and maximum benefits for Indonesia’s younger generation.
