SPPG Urged to Meet Micronutrients to Prevent Hidden Hunger

Jakarta — A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Centre for Public Health Research and Nutrition, Prof Fitrah Ernawati, has urged all Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) in Indonesia to ensure micronutrients are provided to prevent the threat of hidden hunger. Hidden hunger (kelaparan tersembunyi) is a form of malnutrition in which energy intake is adequate (the person looks full and healthy), but the body is deficient in essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamin A.

“A meal rich in energy does not necessarily have high micronutrients. Many energy-dense foods are poor in iron, zinc, and vitamin A. Therefore, it is not enough to simply provide calories to feel full; micronutrient content must also be considered,” she said during a discussion on Friday (6 March 2026).

Fitrah gave an example of a standard MBG meal: rice, stir-fried broccoli and carrots, fried tofu, teriyaki beef, and one banana.

In one portion, she clarified, the animal source of iron comes from the meat, while plant sources come from tofu and broccoli, which also contain vitamin C as an enhancer to improve the absorption of plant-based protein. “What about zinc? We see meat contains many zinc sources, and its absorption is good because it comes from animal sources,” she added.

According to Fitrah, such a menu should become the standard in MBG. Iron, in this context, plays a role in forming haemoglobin that transports oxygen to several organs, including the brain, which is involved in children’s learning activities.

Next, zinc also contributes to the formation of long-term memory, as it is involved in neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. B12 and folate are for DNA synthesis and myelination of the central nervous system.

“So, at least within MBG, we must pay attention to sources of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12,” she emphasised.

Fitrah also stressed that the foods served in MBG should already meet the AKG for important micronutrients, because micronutrient deficiencies can cause children to feel sleepy, have reduced concentration, be fatigued, and tire easily. She also urged a standard micronutrient provision to be the same across all SPPG in Indonesia.

“Is MBG merely to meet energy, to ensure energy adequacy? To fill up the box? If that is the aim, then the risk of micronutrient deficiencies will arise. Then, has it met micronutrient standards? At least meeting the AKG (Angka Kecukupan Gizi) for the main micronutrients listed — iron, zinc, vitamin A, as well as folate and B12,” said Fitrah Ernawati.