BGN: New SPPG Units Must Conduct Service Trials and Food Handler Training

Malang, East Java (ANTARA) - The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) emphasises that every new Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) set to operate must conduct service trials and food handler training.

Harjito, Director of Regional Monitoring and Supervision (Tauwas) Region I of BGN, stated this after monitoring SPPG in Malang City, East Java, on Thursday, noting that pre-operational preparation stages aim to anticipate various challenges in implementing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme.

“We require SPPG to conduct trials before running (operating) and to carry out food handler training; all of this is to avoid unwanted incidents,” said Harjito.

He stated that this is an absolute requirement in carrying out service activities at all SPPG.

“If not, they must prepare a tanker truck every day to dispose of the waste,” Harjito added.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the number of SPPG units could continue to increase to match the needs of beneficiaries, particularly from the group of pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers (3B).

Based on information from the Malang City Health Office (Dinkes), the number of pregnant women in the area is around 12,000. He requested that this data be verified immediately so that MBG needs can be fulfilled quickly and on target.

“If all the data is entered, there is a possibility that SPPG in Malang City could increase by 20 to 25 units, and this will create a good multiplier effect on the economy,” said Harjito.

Currently, there are 82 SPPG units recorded in Malang City, a number that already includes four new MBG kitchens inaugurated today.

The Malang City Government (Pemkot) has formed a task force (satgas) specifically to oversee SPPG.

“We have formed a task force, chaired by Mr. Regional Secretary (Sekda), who always reports and conducts inspections with members from several Regional Device Organisations (OPD) and regularly reports on SPPG developments,” said Mayor Wahyu.