Batang Regency Government Requests Expiry Dates on Free Nutritious Meal Programme Food

The Batang Regency Government, Central Java, has requested that food provided under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Programme include a specified period of freshness to prevent the occurrence of food poisoning.

The Head of the Batang Regency Education and Culture Office, Bambang Suryantoro Sudibyo, stated in Batang on Friday that including a consumption deadline aims to ensure the quality and durability of the meals before they are consumed by recipients.

On this occasion, he noted that schools must play a vital role in supporting the sustainability of this government programme. He added that some members of the public might currently oppose the Free Nutritious Meal Programme due to trauma from recent alleged cases of food poisoning.

“However, we request that opposition to the MBG Programme does not come from educational institutions. If there are parents who object, a rejection mechanism has been prepared through regional coordinators,” he said.

Bambang stated that any rejection from parents must be accompanied by official documentation so that the distribution of portions can be adjusted accordingly.

To maintain the safety and well-being of the student beneficiaries, he advised that students and teachers remain vigilant regarding the condition of the food received.

“The MBG Programme has positive benefits. We ask that schools do not reject it, and if the food received is deemed suspicious or unfit, please do not eat it; do not take it home, simply return it,” he said.