Raw Catfish Found in Free Nutritious Meal Menu Sparks BGN Action

Jakarta — The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has responded to the discovery of raw catfish in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) menu. The agency confirmed it conducted an inspection following reports and has officially temporarily halted the operations of the Nutrition Service Fulfilment Unit (SPPG) in question.

The SPPG is located in Pademawu, Buddagan, Pamekasan Regency, East Java. The raw catfish menu triggered rejection from schools regarding the distributed food.

“Based on BGN leadership’s consideration, the matter was deemed to have obstructed the distribution process in the Free Nutritious Meal Programme. Therefore, the operational activities of SPPG Pamekasan Pademawu Buddagan are temporarily suspended,” said Albertus Dony Dewantoro, Director of Monitoring and Regional Supervision II at BGN, in a statement received by CNBC Indonesia on Thursday (12 March 2026).

Dewantoro explained that the suspension was implemented as a follow-up measure for evaluation and improvement in food processing and serving procedures. During the suspension period, relevant parties will conduct mentoring and operational system improvements.

“SPPG operations will resume after evaluation, mentoring, and improvement processes are declared complete by the competent authorities. The government hopes these improvements will ensure the quality and safety of food provided to students,” he said.

Previously, a viral video emerged showing the MBG menu consisting of raw marinated catfish at a school in Pamekasan Regency on Monday. Fikri Kuttawakil, a nutritionist at SPPG Pamekasan Pademawu Buddagan, explained that the use of marinated catfish in the menu was based on nutritional and food security considerations.

“We use marinated catfish firstly to prevent nutrient loss in the catfish and to add protein for the day. When marinated, catfish can also remain fresh for up to a day,” explained Fikri.

SPPG Pamekasan Pademawu Buddagan serves a total of 3,329 beneficiaries, comprising secondary school students (SMA/SMK/MA), junior secondary school students (SMP/MTs), early childhood education (PAUD/TK), special education (SLB), teaching staff, as well as groups of pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children in the region.