National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has decided to temporarily suspend the operation 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 agency took strict action by stopping the operations of the affected SPPG units until a thorough investigation is conducted and the food samples from the MBG program are fully tested in the laboratory. BGN is collaborating with independent institutions, local health departments, and education departments to determine the cause of the incident and ensure the well-being of the affected students. The agency expressed sincere apologies to the students, parents, schools, and all parties affected by the discovery of unsuitable food in the MBG Program, emphasizing its zero tolerance for negligence in food procurement and distribution. BGN is committed to prioritizing the health and safety of all MBG recipients and is working closely with local government authorities to address the situation promptly and effectively. The agency is implementing corrective measures such as stricter partner screening, enhanced hygiene standards, improved supply chain monitoring, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to prevent similar incidents in the future. By upholding food safety standards and working collaboratively with stakeholders, BGN aims to ensure the MBG Program continues to benefit the people without compromising their health.

