Jakarta, ThedailyID — Indonesia’s police forensic laboratory is examining food samples after 566 students and Islamic boarding school students reportedly fell ill following a free nutritious meal program in Sidoarjo, East Java.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, in Kalitengah Village, Tanggulangin District. Police are investigating whether the meals caused the suspected mass food poisoning.
East Java Police spokesperson Jules Abraham Abast confirmed that the Police Forensic Laboratory team had begun examining the samples on Wednesday, September 2.
“The forensic laboratory examination is part of the process to scientifically determine the cause of the incident,” Jules said, Wednesday (02/09/26).
The team will analyze the food samples to identify what may have triggered the illness. Police have not yet released the results.
“We are waiting for the results of the forensic laboratory examination and further developments in the handling of the case by Sidoarjo City Police,” Jules said.
According to police, the suspected food poisoning affected students from 19 educational institutions in Tanggulangin. At least 88 people remain under intensive treatment in hospitals.
The incident has also raised questions about the management of the MBG program in Sidoarjo. Earlier, the Sidoarjo regent said 31 School Meal Service Units (SPPG) in the area did not have the required permits.
Authorities are now waiting for the laboratory results to determine whether the MBG meals caused the mass illness. The investigation will also help identify any potential problems in food preparation or distribution.
