RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – A shocking case of suspected food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meal program has sparked panic in Surabaya after nearly 200 students from several schools reportedly suffered nausea, vomiting, and dizziness shortly after eating their school lunch packages.
The incident, which affected kindergarten, elementary, and junior high school students, once again raised concerns over food safety, hygiene standards, and meal packaging in government-backed nutrition programs. The Free Nutritious Meal food poisoning case quickly became a major public concern as dozens of parents rushed to schools and health facilities after students began collapsing during school hours.
According to preliminary reports, the students consumed lunch distributed by a nearby SPPG provider before many of them simultaneously experienced similar symptoms. Several children had to receive medical treatment at community health centers and hospitals across Surabaya.
Hundreds of Students Suddenly Fell Ill
Witnesses described chaotic scenes inside schools as students complained of dizziness and nausea during recess. Some students vomited in classrooms and school corridors, forcing teachers and medical officers to respond immediately.
One student said the school distributed the food around 08.30 a.m., while symptoms started appearing roughly 30 minutes later during the morning break.
“I felt dizzy and nauseous. Some of us even needed IV treatment,” the student said while receiving medical care.
Parents also voiced concern over recurring hygiene problems in school meal programs. Many questioned whether catering staff properly processed and stored the food ingredients before distribution.
Health officers confirmed that students from several schools and educational levels suffered similar symptoms in the Surabaya area.
Health Authorities Launch Investigation
Medical personnel quickly evacuated students showing symptoms to nearby healthcare facilities. Authorities estimated the number of affected victims had reached nearly 200 children.
“Most students complained about nausea, vomiting, and dizziness after consuming the meal packages,” a health officer explained.
Fortunately, officials said most students only experienced mild symptoms and remained in stable condition. However, the large number of victims forced local authorities and health agencies to move quickly.
Investigators collected food samples for laboratory testing to identify the exact cause of the suspected food poisoning outbreak. Early findings pointed to a processed meat menu item that schools reportedly served for the first time.
Laboratory tests will determine whether bacterial contamination, poor food handling, or improper storage triggered the mass illness.
Food Hygiene Comes Under Scrutiny
The Free Nutritious Meal program originally aimed to improve children’s daily nutritional intake and support student health. However, repeated food poisoning incidents have weakened public trust in the initiative.
Food safety experts warned that large-scale school meal distribution requires strict monitoring, especially regarding ingredient freshness, packaging quality, transportation, and sanitation procedures.
Spoiled food or bacterial contamination can spread rapidly among students because schools distribute meals simultaneously to hundreds of children within a short period.
Parents in Surabaya urged authorities to tighten supervision over catering partners and food providers responsible for school meals.
Several residents also demanded transparent investigation results and accountability if investigators discover negligence.
Repeated Incidents Trigger Bigger Concerns
This latest Free Nutritious Meal food poisoning case is not the first incident involving problems in student meal distribution programs in Indonesia. Previous cases in other regions also highlighted concerns about food quality and hygiene management.
Education observers warned that nutritional programs could lose public trust if authorities fail to maintain consistent food safety standards.
Despite the controversy, many parents still support free nutritious meal programs for students, especially for families that need additional nutritional assistance. However, they stressed that authorities must prioritize student health and food safety.
Authorities are still waiting for laboratory results before confirming the source of contamination. Schools continue monitoring affected students while coordinating with local health agencies.
The incident serves as a serious reminder that nutrition programs require not only sufficient food supplies but also strict quality control systems to prevent similar health scares in the future.
As investigators continue examining the case, the Surabaya community hopes authorities will improve supervision and guarantee safer meals for students moving forward.