Free Nutritious Meal Program: Hundreds of Students, Toddlers in Cikalongkulon Suffer from Food Poisoning

A mass incident of suspected food poisoning has affected over 200 individuals in Cikalongkulon District, Cianjur Regency, West Java, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The affected population includes 205 early childhood, elementary, and junior high school students, as well as toddlers.

Details of the Incident

The illnesses are suspected to be linked to the consumption of meals provided through the free nutritious meal (MBG) program. A total of 190 victims received treatment at the Cijagang Community Health Center, with an additional 15 treated at the Cikalongkulon Community Health Center.

The severity of the condition prompted the referral of five victims, primarily toddlers, to Sayang Cianjur Regional General Hospital. Two more were transported to Dr. Hafiz Cianjur Hospital for further medical attention.

Personal Accounts

Mikdar, a resident of Padajaya Village, reported that his 21-month-old daughter, Neng Inaya, became ill after eating shredded chicken from the MBG program brought home by her sibling. He stated that she “vomited and had to be treated” and was subsequently referred to Sayang Cianjur Regional Hospital.

Mikdar also noted that his two older children, in second and sixth grade, regularly receive the MBG rations, and his second grader brought the meal home on Tuesday.

Official Response and Supply Chain

Iyus Yusup, the Cikalongkulon Sub-district Head, confirmed that victims originated from multiple schools, including Langkob Elementary School and Majalaya 2 Elementary School, as well as preschools and junior high schools. He stated the total number of affected individuals is 205.

Did You Know? The MBG rations were supplied by the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit of the CV Yayasan Sain Bina Cendikia, located in Cikalongkulon District.

As of 9:00 PM WIB (Western Indonesian Time), ambulances continued to arrive at the Sayang Regional General Hospital with additional patients. The Regent of Cianjur, Mohammad Wahyu Ferdian, visited a toddler receiving treatment before traveling to Cikalongkulon.

Wahyu stated, “We’ll go to the location in Cikalongkulon first.”

Expert Insight: Mass poisoning events linked to school meal programs highlight the critical importance of robust food safety protocols and supply chain oversight. The swift response from local health authorities and the Regent’s visit indicate a recognition of the seriousness of the situation and a commitment to addressing the immediate health needs of those affected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are affected?

A total of 205 individuals, including students and toddlers, are suspected of experiencing food poisoning.

Where did the affected individuals receive treatment?

190 victims were treated at the Cijagang Community Health Center and 15 at the Cikalongkulon Community Health Center. Five were referred to Sayang Cianjur Regional General Hospital, and two to Dr. Hafiz Cianjur Hospital.

Who supplies the MBG rations?

The MBG rations were supplied by the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit of the CV Yayasan Sain Bina Cendikia, located on Jalan Raya Jonggol, Sukagalih Village, Cikalongkulon District, Cianjur Regency.

Further investigation may be needed to determine the exact cause of the illnesses and prevent similar incidents in the future. It is possible that authorities will review the food preparation and distribution processes of the MBG program. A comprehensive assessment of the supply chain could also be undertaken.