MBG Poisoning Case at SMAN 2 Kudus Caused by e-Coli Kuah Soto

JAKARTA - The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) revealed the results of the laboratory case of poisoning Free Nutrition Meal (MBG) at SMAN 2 Kudus, Central Java which resulted in hundreds of students experiencing digestive disorders.

Deputy Head of BGN for Public Communication and Investigation Nanik Sudaryati Deyang said based on the results of the Central Java Provincial Health Office laboratory, the cause of the digestive disorder suffered by hundreds of SMAN 2 Kudus students was the contamination of e-coli bacteria in the soto broth served in the MBG menu.

"The results of the laboratory test of the Central Java Provincial Health Office showed the presence of e-coli bacteria in the soto sauce and sambal. This finding is the basis for us to evaluate and improve," he said as reported by ANTARA, Friday, February 6.

BGN also conducted an investigation to trace the food processing process and found that the Purwosari Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) kitchen, which processes and distributes food, has not fully met the requirements for food safety, sanitation, and hygiene as stipulated by the standards.

He emphasized that BGN continues to carry out evaluations for both the implementation of the MBG program in Kudus and all food providers in other regions.

"This incident must be a joint learning for all MBG organizers in other regions. The standards of kitchen hygiene and food safety cannot be negotiated," he said.

As a follow-up step, BGN will strengthen supervision, technical assistance, and enforcement of standard operating procedures (SOP) for MBG provider kitchens.

This effort is to ensure that the implementation of the program is safe, quality, and in accordance with applicable regulations.

"We want to ensure that this program runs according to its purpose, is safe, and really provides benefits for children. We will continue to evaluate and improve," he said.