BGN mandates regular health checks for kitchen staff in West Papua free nutrition programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has mandated that all kitchen staff at Nutritional Service Units (SPPG) in West Papua province undergo regular health examinations to guarantee food safety and the quality of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme.

Bil Glen Mambrasar, Deputy Head of BGN Regional Office for West Papua, stated in Manokwari on Saturday that health examination results are a prerequisite for obtaining a Hygiene Sanitation Certificate (SLHS).

“Not only when applying for the SLHS, but every six months, SPPG staff must undergo medical check-ups,” he said.

According to Mambrasar, periodic health checks are essential to ensure all kitchen staff are in good health, free from contagious diseases, and comply with established operational standards.

“If examination results indicate a contagious disease, the consequence is that the SPPG must dismiss that staff member. New recruitment is also subject to health testing,” he explained.

Additionally, BGN requires all kitchen staff to maintain personal hygiene by using protective equipment including masks, head coverings, and gloves whilst preparing food. This measure aims to guarantee the quality and safety of food distributed to vulnerable groups receiving benefits from the Free Nutritious Meals programme, particularly students, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children.

“SPPG staff serve the community, especially the programme’s beneficiaries. Therefore, they must be healthy and clean,” Mambrasar said.

According to him, the workforce at each SPPG varies between 35 and 40 personnel, adjusted according to food production capacity for beneficiaries and based on central BGN requirements. Food production is limited to 2,500 portions per day.