BGN to integrate nutrition education into Free Nutritious Meals
Sudaryono made the statement while reviewing the implementation of the MBG Program at public elementary school SDN Bantarjati 09 in Bogor City, West Java, on Friday.
According to him, the BGN will prepare additional modules to be delivered through the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) at schools to strengthen the development of healthy lifestyle habits among children.
“In addition to teaching etiquette such as washing hands and praying before meals, we will also explain the nutritional content and why eating vegetables is important. We will convey that to the children as well,” he said.
He noted that habits formed during childhood will influence a person’s eating patterns in adulthood, making nutrition education an important part of the success of the MBG Program.
“If our children enjoy vegetables from an early age, they will continue to enjoy vegetables. That is why this is not a free tasty meal based on preferences, but a free nutritious meal that is made to be tasty and served in appropriate portions,” he remarked.
Sudaryono added that the BGN will continue to evaluate the MBG implementation through direct inspections of meal preparation kitchens. The evaluations cover menu quality, meal presentation, and students’ acceptance of the meals provided.
At present, he said, around 27 thousand MBG kitchens are operating in various regions across Indonesia, with the majority implementing the program in accordance with established standards. The BGN will continue to provide guidance to service providers while strengthening coordination with regional governments, health offices, and education offices.
Meanwhile, Head of SDN Bantarjati 09 Bogor City Sugiartini said the MBG Program has changed students’ eating habits at the school.
“The children are very enthusiastic. Those who usually skipped breakfast are now having breakfast, and those who did not like vegetables now enjoy them. Thank God, nearly every student eats the MBG meals, and almost all of them finish their meals,” she said.
She noted that the program has been well-received by students, who especially enjoy meals featuring chicken, eggs, burgers, and fruit.
Related news: Sudaryono ready to lead Indonesia’s free meals program
Related news: Brazil ready to supply soybeans for Indonesia’s free meal program
Related news: Prabowo pledges to end extreme poverty through 29 policies
Translator: Setiawan, Kenzu