MBG Menu Causing Mass Poisoning in Sidoarjo Tests Positive for Bacterial Contamination

The laboratory test results for food samples involved in the mass poisoning incident within the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Sidoarjo, East Java, have been released. The examination revealed that one food sample tested positive for bacterial contamination.

This was confirmed by the Acting Regional Secretary of Sidoarjo and Chairman of the Sidoarjo MBG Task Force, M. Ainur Rahman. He acknowledged the presence of positive bacterial findings in the laboratory tests.

“The lab results are out and have been reported to the Regent. From the samples examined, some were negative and one was positive for contamination,” Ainur told reporters on Friday (11/09/2026).

However, Ainur has not yet disclosed the specific type of bacteria or which food sample was declared positive. He noted that the technical details of the examination results will be provided by the relevant authorities, including the Health Office.

He emphasised that the discovery of bacteria does not immediately confirm that the food was the sole cause of the poisoning. The government is still conducting an investigation to identify the source of the contamination.

“It cannot yet be confirmed whether it is purely due to food factors. There could be many factors, such as water, raw ingredients, or environmental hygiene,” he said.

The laboratory results have also been submitted to the police to support the ongoing investigation. The Sidoarjo Police will subsequently compare the local government’s laboratory test results with the forensic examinations conducted by the police.