STATE ACCOUNTABILITY FOR FOOD POISONING IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF FREE NUTRITIOUS FOOD PROGRAMS: A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the legal responsibility of the state in cases of food poisoning occurring within the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) in Indonesia, and to examine the regulatory framework governing the state’s obligation to ensure food safety in such public programs. The research employs a normative legal approach, focusing on the analysis of national legislation and relevant international legal instruments. The findings reveal a significant legal gap in the state accountability mechanism, particularly in terms of victim compensation and ineffective oversight of program implementation. Normative and practical constraints such as weak inter-agency coordination and limited victim access to complaint mechanisms are identified as major barriers to the enforcement of state legal responsibility. Therefore, the development of an ideal legal accountability model must integrate administrative, civil, and human rights dimensions, supported by strong law enforcement and regulatory harmonization between central and regional governments. This study provides recommendations for strengthening regulatory frameworks and accountability mechanisms to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights to safe and nutritious food.