2,800 MBG meals in Karanganyar not distributed after tester feels nausea
A cook first noticed a foul smell, then the SPPG head felt nauseous about an hour after tasting the spiced chicken.
About 2,800 portions of Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) at SPPG Jati, Karanganyar regency, Central Java, were not distributed on Wednesday (12/8/2026) after the SPPG head, Abra Yodha Raya, felt nauseous after tasting the spiced chicken menu. Abra said the cook had earlier reported an unpleasant smell from the food. Under procedure, an organoleptic test is first carried out by a nutritionist, chef and the SPPG head by checking aroma, color, taste and texture before the food is sent to schools. Abra tasted the menu at about 07:30 WIB and felt nauseous about an hour later. He denied feeling dizzy and would not yet describe the condition as food poisoning, saying his body may simply have been unwell. In Semarang, Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin said the involvement of the SPPG head in tasting the menu before distribution was a form of responsibility, adding that the MBG program would continue with improvements.