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Mass food poisoning incidents prompt call for free meals program evaluation
The latest incident occurred on Wednesday, impacting at least 13 students from SDN 33 Kasipute elementary school in Bombana regency, Southeast Sulawesi. This marks the sixth such case since the program was launched in January.
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A worker prepares meal packages for the free nutritious meal program at the kitchen of an Islamic boarding school in Kudus regency, Central Java, on Feb. 12, 2025. The free meal program was kicked off since Jan. 13, 2025, with the first phase targeting more than 3,200 recipients in 17 schools across Kudus regency. (Antara/Yusuf Nugroho)
T
he House of Representatives has urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to conduct a "thorough evaluation" of the free nutritious meal program following multiple food poisoning incidents that have affected hundreds of students across the country.
The latest incident occurred on Wednesday, impacting at least 13 students from SD 33 Kasipute elementary school in Bombana regency, Southeast Sulawesi. This marks the sixth such case since the program was launched in January.
Nurhadi, a member of House of Representatives Commission IX, which oversees health, called for a comprehensive evaluation of the food safety procedures in the program, covering everything from ingredient sourcing to meal distribution.
"These food poisoning incidents are deeply concerning, especially since the free meals program has the noble aim of improving schoolchildren's nutrition and reducing stunting," said the Nasdem party politician on Wednesday, as quoted by Kompas.com.
Read also: Cianjur declares health emergency after 78 students suffer food poisoning
He stressed that the latest food poisoning case should serve as a "serious warning" to the BGN, as the recurring incidents highlighted systemic and fundamental problems in the program’s management and operations.
"We will urge the government to conduct a thorough audit of the free meal caterers across various regions, including pushing for stronger food hygiene and sanitary standards. Authorities must impose strict sanctions if they find any negligence or procedural violations," Nurhadi added.
