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Why Indonesian students are getting food poisoning at school

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Ferdinand Himawan
October 6, 2025

In Indonesia, a government program aimed to fight child malnutrition through a Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program. But thousands of children have suffer food poisoning after eating the free school lunches.

In Indonesia, a government program aimed at fighting child malnutrition has led to widespread food poisoning. Thousands of students, including dozens in West Java, fell ill after eating free school meals. Investigators blame poor hygiene in central kitchens and lack of oversight. Critics say the program was rushed for political reasons. Despite calls to pause the program, the government plans to expand it to 83 million students.

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