Free meal program still prioritizes local food commodities: BGN

hartono · Aug 1, 2026

Free meal program still prioritizes local food commodities: BGN

Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, at a press conference in Jakarta on Friday (July 31, 2026). ANTARA/HO-BGN

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Sudaryono reaffirmed that his agency continues to prioritize locally sourced food commodities in regions for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.

This was conveyed in response to a proposal by state-owned food logistics firm Bulog for the free meal program to utilize its premium-quality rice.

"While we view Bulog's proposal positively, we want to emphasize that the MBG program continues to prioritize local food commodities," Sudaryono said at a press conference in Jakarta on Friday.

The approach was chosen to bolster regional economies by empowering local farmers, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and the food supply chains surrounding the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) or MBG kitchens.

According to him, Bulog would not replace local suppliers, but rather serve as a buffer if a region faces rice shortages or price volatility.

Sudaryono noted that Bulog plays a strategic role in maintaining price stability while ensuring national food stock availability.

"Bulog can act as a buffer, ensuring prices remain reasonable for the public and that food supplies remain available," he said.

The BGN head stressed the importance of ensuring the presence of MBG kitchens would not trigger price spikes in a region by absorbing limited supplies.

"That is why we prioritize local food produce first. Only when shortages occur will Bulog step in as a buffer to keep prices stable and supplies secure," Sudaryono reiterated.

Targeting 82.9 million beneficiaries nationwide, the MBG program was launched in early 2025 as a key program of the Prabowo Subianto administration to improve the nutritional status of children under five, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and schoolchildren.