Lab results confirm bacterial contamination after Tulungagung free-meal poisoning

Laboratory tests have confirmed bacterial contamination in food served through Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals program in Tulungagung, prompting authorities to strengthen monitoring of the kitchen involved.

The samples came from the SPPG Pakisrejo kitchen and were collected after 66 program recipients in Rejotangan district developed digestive problems in late July 2026. Those affected included students, toddlers, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

Sri Wahyuni, a member of the Tulungagung program task force, said the tests found bacteria that could cause digestive disorders. She did not identify the bacteria, saying technical details fell under the authority of medical and laboratory teams. She said contamination could be linked to food processing, distribution or serving methods.

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In general, the laboratory tests did find positive results for bacteria. The bacteria can cause digestive disorders in program recipients.

The task force and environmental health inspection team have carried out a follow-up evaluation of the kitchen. Their findings will guide recommendations to improve food safety. Officials also plan regular monitoring and unannounced inspections, and urged operators to report any similar incidents immediately.

The National Nutrition Agency temporarily halted operations at SPPG Pakisrejo to support the evaluation and corrective work. Authorities said they would continue strengthening food-safety oversight across the meal program.

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We will push for faster regular monitoring and evaluation, including unannounced inspections of SPPG kitchens. We also emphasize to operators that they must immediately report any indications of a similar incident.