National Nutrition Agency Bans Milk-Flavoured Drinks in Free Nutritious Meal Programme; DPR Urges Strict Oversight

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has banned the use of milk-based drinks, milk-flavoured beverages, and condensed milk in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme menu. This prohibition has been appreciated by Netty Prasetiyani Aher, a member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI).

According to Netty, this policy is a vital step in ensuring that every food ingredient provided in the MBG programme possesses genuine nutritional value and benefits for the growth and development of recipients. “The Free Nutritised Meal programme should not be judged solely by how full the recipients feel, but must also ensure the quality and nutritional content. Therefore, the use of products that truly provide nutritional value must be the primary focus,” Netty stated on Friday (11/09/2026).

Previously, the BGN recommended the use of animal milk in the form of pasteurised, UHT, and sterile full-cream plain milk. These products are not permitted to contain added sugar, preservatives, flavourings, or colourings, and must contain a minimum of 80 per cent fresh milk and possess official distribution permits from the BPOM (Indonesian Food and Drug Authority).

“Decisions made at the central level must be strictly implemented in the field. We must ensure that even though good standards exist, products that do not comply with the regulations do not emerge during the procurement and distribution processes,” she said.

In addition to product content, Netty also highlighted the importance of supervising storage and distribution processes. This is particularly crucial for pasteurised milk products, which require a cold chain system.

“Food safety must go hand-in-hand with nutritional fulfilment. Good products must be handled with correct procedures until they are received by children and other beneficiary groups,” she added.

Netty also welcomed the BGN’s commitment to promoting the use of animal milk. This is expected to benefit programme recipients while simultaneously supporting the productivity and welfare of local livestock farmers.

“The MBG programme has great potential to create a healthy food ecosystem. If managed well, this programme will not only improve the nutritional quality of Indonesian children but can also stimulate the community economy and provide greater opportunities for local farmers,” said Netty.