Ministry of Cooperatives Distributes Pasteurized Milk to Support MBG

TheIndonesia.id - The Ministry of Cooperatives has begun distributing pasteurized milk produced by cooperatives to support the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG or Makanan Bergizi Gratis) programme and enhance the welfare of farmers. This initiative aims to provide affordable and nutritious milk to children while benefiting cooperative members and local farmers.

According to Antara News Agency, in a statement on Tuesday, Cooperatives Minister Budi Arie Setiadi announced that, in the initial phase, 2,348 liters of pasteurized milk would be distributed to 10,375 students across 27 schools and Islamic schools through five nutritional fulfillment service units (SPPG).

“Pasteurized milk offers high nutritional value at an affordable price, providing essential proteins, minerals, and vitamins for children's growth,” Minister Setiadi explained.

Earlier trials were conducted in Jakarta, West Java, and East Java in partnership with five milk producer cooperatives. In East Java's Malang district, for instance, 802 liters of milk from the Kan Jabung Malang Cooperative were distributed to 3,047 students using environmentally friendly and hygienic dispensers, instead of single-use packaging.

The milk distribution programme has also undergone feasibility testing and received supervision from the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM).

Minister Setiadi emphasized that this initiative will not only improve children's health and intelligence but also strengthen cooperatives and support farmers by providing market stability and increasing production absorption.

"The programmepasteurized ensures market certainty for cooperatives and farmers, while promoting regular milk consumption to benefit children’s health and learning," he added.

Following the success of the trials, the Ministry of Cooperatives plans to further evaluate and expand the distribution scheme, aiming to extend the programme’s reach across Indonesia.