Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, has outlined several causes behind the recent wave of mass food poisoning incidents linked to the government’s Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program.
Speaking during a joint session with Commission IX of the House of Representatives (DPR) alongside the Head of the National Nutrition Agency, the Minister for Population and Family Planning, and the Head of the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) at the Parliament Complex in Senayan on Wednesday, October 1, Budi cited that poisoning cases stemmed from bacteria, viruses, and even chemical contamination.
“From the results of epidemiological research on the SPPG [local MBG providers] we have reviewed, the causes of poisoning are medical in nature. Some are bacterial, some viral, and some chemical,” Budi said in his presentation.
He detailed the classification of foodborne pathogens identified in the cases:
● Bacteria: Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter jejuni, and Shigella;
● Viruses: Norovirus/Rotavirus and Hepatitis A virus;
● Chemicals: Nitrites and Scombrotoxin (histamine).
Budi stressed that identifying the specific causes is crucial for determining appropriate response measures.
“We can also trace the source or reason behind the incidents, because each bacterium or virus has different characteristics,” he said.
The minister further highlighted the importance of classifying sources of contamination to strengthen the capacity of public health laboratories at the district and municipal levels.
“For the research, there are two types: microbiological studies for bacteria and viruses, and toxicological studies for chemical contamination,” Budi said.
Already have an account? Sign In
-
Start reading
Freemium
-
Monthly Subscription
20% OFF$29.75
$37.19/MonthCancel anytime
This offer is open to all new subscribers!
Subscribe now -
Yearly Subscription
33% OFF$228.13
$340.5/YearCancel anytime
This offer is open to all new subscribers!
Subscribe now
Set up email notifications for these topics
