Sigit Zulmunir, Jakarta – A total of 657 students in Garut Regency, West Java, Indonesia, have been affected by suspected mass food poisoning linked to the government's free nutritious meal program (MBG).
"Currently, only 10 students remain hospitalized, down from 30 at the peak," said Garut Health Office Head Leli Yuliani on Friday, September 19, 2025.
The poisoning cases spanned elementary, junior high, and high school levels. Students first reported nausea, vomiting, and dizziness on Tuesday, September 16. The following day, 30 required intensive care at the Kadungora Community Health Center.
Complaints emerged after students ate meals distributed by the Al Bayyinah 2 Garut Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), located in Karangmulya Village, Kadungora District. The menu included white rice, woku chicken, stir-fried tempeh, raw vegetables, and strawberries.
Food samples have been sent to the West Java provincial laboratory, with results expected in five days. "Since Wednesday, medical teams have been stationed at schools to treat and monitor students. Those with mild symptoms received standard medication, while we continue to monitor their condition," Leli said.
Local authorities are coordinating with the MBG task force. Regent Abdusy Syakur Amin has also issued a circular requiring all kitchens to undergo food safety training. "Not all MBG kitchens have reported food safety certification, including the one in Kadungora currently under investigation," Leli added.
Garut Police confirmed they are investigating the case. Officers have visited the affected locations, documented victims, interviewed witnesses, and collected food and vomit samples for lab testing.
"We are conducting an in-depth investigation to determine the cause, including laboratory tests on the food samples, and further steps are ongoing," said Garut Police spokesperson Ipda Adi Susilo in a written statement.