JURIDICAL ANALYSIS OF THE GOVERNMENT'S NEGLECT OF THE NUTRITIONIST'S ROLE IN THE FREE NUTRITIOUS MEAL PROGRAM

Abstract

This study analyzes the neglect of the nutritionist's role in the Free Nutritious Meal Program and assesses its compliance with legal provisions regulated in Law Number 17 of 2023 concerning Health, as well as technical regulations in the field of nutrition. This research uses a normative legal research method by examining relevant legislation, technical nutritional guidelines, and scientific literature. The findings indicate a disharmony between the legal norm which clearly mandates the involvement of nutritionists in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of nutritional intervention programs and the government's policy practice, which fails to adequately accommodate this role. This neglect has implications for low quality assurance, potential inaccuracy in menu formulation, and weak accountability in program governance. Consequently, it can be qualified as a form of non-compliance with nutritional service standards and the principle of public health rights protection. This study recommends the refinement of operational regulations, the reinforcement of the nutritionist's role within the program structure, and the enhancement of monitoring mechanisms so that the Free Nutritious Meal Program can run effectively, adhere to professional standards, and ensure the fulfillment of the public's right to safe and quality nutrition.