Root Cause of Hundreds of SMKN 6 Semarang Students' Poisoning Identified as 3 Bacteria

An investigation into a mass food poisoning incident at SMKN 6 Semarang in Central Java has identified three types of bacteria as the cause. The "Makan Bergizi Gratis" (MBG) meal, distributed on July 31, 2026, sickened 707 students and teachers.

According to Mochamad Abdul Hakam, Head of the Semarang City Health Office, laboratory tests confirmed the presence of E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus bacteria in the MBG meals. These bacteria were found in the side dishes, specifically rendang and quail eggs. Hakam stated that the lab results were finalized last week.

To prevent recurrence, health officials are advocating for daily microbiological sampling of MBG meals at the school's nutrition provider (SPPG). Hakam noted that while the health office is prepared to conduct these checks, the process requires authorization and coordination with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti has supported the idea of regular microbiological testing for MBG meals for the past three months, but the BGN's request for the testing is still pending.