MBG Poisoning, BGN Temporarily Closes SPPG East Lakam 1 Karimun River

Illustration of free nutritious food (ANTARA)

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended the operation of the East Lakam 1 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) in Karimun Regency, Riau Islands Province, following allegations of poisoning cases experienced by a number of beneficiaries in the area.

The Coordinator of BGN Regional Riau Islands Province, Anindita Ayu, said that on Thursday, September 25, 14 school students in Karimun Regency were suspected of having food poisoning for the Free Nutrition Food Program (MBG) produced by SPPG Sungai Lakam Timur 1.

The students who experienced these symptoms were rushed to the local health care facility for further medical treatment.

"The total beneficiaries of SPPG Sungai Lakam Timur 1 in Karimun Regency reached 3,941 people," said Anindita, quoted by ANTARA, Friday, September 26.

Food samples that are suspected to be the cause of poisoning have been sent to the authorities for further testing.

He added that this temporary suspension was a short-term step taken by BGN to minimize risks.

"Food samples have also been submitted to the Health Office and the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM)," he said.

According to Anindita, the incident has been reported in stages, starting with the Karimun Regency Government, Karimun Resort Police, to the Karimun Military District Command (Kodim) 0317 on Thursday (25/9).

"We have also reported this incident to the Deputy for Monitoring and Supervision of Region I as well as to the Head of the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Office and the Head of the Riau Islands Regional Head," he said.