Indonesia's BGN issues regulation on food waste in free meal programme

The rules apply to all Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) operating under the scheme.

BGN Head Dadan Hindayana said the regulation represents a crucial step in ensuring that the program delivers not only nutritional benefits but also safeguards public health and environmental sustainability.

“This regulation is important to safeguard public health, prevent environmental pollution, and ensure that food hygiene and sanitation principles are properly implemented in the MBG Program,” Hindayana stated on Friday.

The new rules follow Presidential Regulation No. 115/2025, which mandated more comprehensive governance of the MBG initiative. Under the regulation, each SPPG is fully responsible for managing food leftovers, operational waste, and domestic wastewater.

“SPPG is not only responsible for providing nutritious meals, but also for ensuring that all processes, including the waste produced, are managed properly and responsibly,” Hindayana emphasized.

He added that food leftovers should not be seen merely as waste but as part of a system that must be managed efficiently to avoid wastefulness. Leftovers still fit for consumption must be handled carefully to prevent unnecessary disposal.

By embedding sustainability principles into the MBG Program, the agency aims to ensure that efforts to improve public nutrition also contribute to environmental protection and long-term food security.

Translator: Lintang, Kenzu