Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) confirmed 70 food poisoning incidents between January and September 2025, affecting 5,914 recipients of the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program.

Officials confirmed 45 Nutrition Service Units (MBG) kitchens failed to follow health protocols, with 40 immediately shut down indefinitely.

“We recorded 45 kitchens that violated standard of procedures and caused food safety incidents. Of these, 40 have been closed until all investigations and improvements are completed. We will not compromise on children’s health,” said BGN Deputy Head Nanik Sudaryati Deyang  on Friday (26/9/2025), holding back tears as she apologized publicly.

BGN identified bacterial contamination, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus, as the main cause of outbreaks, according to antaranews.com. 

The agency has ordered all program partners to obtain hygiene, halal, and clean water certificates within one month or risk termination. Officials pledged sweeping reforms and stricter monitoring to prevent further cases.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)