Head of the National Nutrition Agency Bans the Use of Simple Plastic Packaging for Ramadan Free Nutritious Meals
The Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Dadan Hindayana, has requested that in the future, all packaging for free nutritious meals (MBG) should no longer use simple plastic. The packaging that must be used in the future, he said, must be placed in a representative and hygienic container. This is done to maintain the quality of the food until it is received by the beneficiaries.
In addition, Dadan also highlighted the composition of the MBG Ramadan food, which has recently gone viral on social media. He said that the BGN has conducted an evaluation of the packaging aspects, menu composition, and transparency of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA).
“We want to ensure that the implementation of the MBG Ramadan remains in accordance with nutritional standards, is targeted effectively, and is transparent in terms of budget use,” said Dadan in a coordination meeting with all partners and heads of nutrition service units (SPPG) conducted online on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
In the meeting, Dadan also requested that partners replace the nut-based menu with eggs. According to him, the price of nuts is relatively more expensive than the price of eggs. In fact, in terms of protein content, eggs are much better than nuts. Eggs are also more easily accepted by the public than nuts.
Dadan ensured that each SPPG prepares a detailed explanation of the RDA in each MBG menu provided to each beneficiary. Likewise, transparency regarding the price of each food item in each MBG menu.
He mentioned that the price of raw materials for toddlers to elementary school students in grade 3 is IDR 8,000. For other groups, it is IDR 10,000. This benchmark, he said, may vary according to the cost of living index in the region and is based on actual costs.
Dadan requested that each SPPG start procuring vacuum equipment (vacuum sealer) so that food is more durable, hygienic, and remains fit for consumption when distributed. This step is part of strengthening food safety standards in the implementation of MBG during Ramadan.
The BGN also reminded partners not to force the use of raw materials that are already in poor condition. If materials that are not suitable are found, distribution can be postponed and informed to be replaced the next day. This policy is taken to ensure that the safety and health of beneficiaries remain the top priority.
“We do not want any compromise in terms of quality. The principle is simple: food must be safe, nutritious, and in accordance with the budget. If there are materials that are not suitable, it is better to replace them than to force them. This is our responsibility to the community,” said Dadan.
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