National Nutrition Agency Investigates Alleged Food Poisoning in Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Nabire

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) in Nabire District, Central Papua, is rapidly investigating an alleged food poisoning incident affecting seven beneficiaries of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The victims, comprising three teachers and four students, have reported serious digestive system disturbances.

BGN Nabire Regional Coordinator Marsel Asyerem disclosed that the seven victims came from three different schools: TK Gracia, SMP Negeri 7, and SD Inpres Waharia. All three are schools receiving meal supplies from the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) Lani.

The patients reported similar symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, and dizziness beginning on Wednesday (11 March). However, an official report was only received by BGN on Friday (13 March).

Based on preliminary medical examinations, the medical team identified indications of bacteria attacking patients’ immune systems. Nevertheless, the exact cause cannot yet be concluded. Marsel emphasised the necessity of laboratory testing on patient vomit samples. The challenge is that laboratory facilities in Nabire are inadequate, requiring samples to be flown to Jayapura for accurate results.

The initial investigation revealed indications of procedure violations. Of the seven victims, three consumed MBG meals at home after bringing them away from school. However, according to standard operating procedures (SOP), wet food in this programme must be consumed directly at school. This measure aims to prevent risks of food spoilage or contamination by harmful substances during transport or storage for prolonged periods outside recommended room temperature.

BGN has reported the incident to national level authorities and instructed a comprehensive audit of SPPG Lani kitchen, which serves 1,892 beneficiaries across 17 schools. All kitchens in the Nabire region have been ordered to tighten food processing standards to prevent similar incidents.

BGN is bearing full treatment costs for the victims. Five patients previously admitted to Rihensa Clinic with bills reaching Rp9.84 million have now been transferred to Alfa Benedik Jaya Clinic for optimal care. BGN ensures all affected beneficiaries receive the best healthcare services, with conditions monitored regularly by the medical team.