Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), continues to demonstrate its contribution to public policy research through its collaboration with the Central Java Regional Research and Innovation Agency (Brida). This partnership produced an in-depth analysis of the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program, a strategic initiative designed to enhance community nutrition, support education, reduce household economic burdens, and promote the utilization of local food resources.

The research team from FEB UNS was led by Prof. Dr. Izza Mafruhah, S.E., M.Si., together with Dewi Ismoyowati, S.E., M.Ec.Dev., Dr. Nurul Istiqomah, S.E., M.Si., and several students. The study examined three selected regions—Demak Municipality, Wonosobo Municipality, and Pekalongan City—using a comprehensive academic approach to observe how the MBG Program operates in practice, particularly in relation to the availability of local food resources and the dynamics of fulfilling the nutritional needs of targeted beneficiaries.

The findings indicate that the participation of local producers in supplying food for the MBG Program remains limited, requiring strengthened distribution efficiency and improved collaboration between local governments, food providers, and other stakeholders. The study also highlights the significance of developing supporting infrastructure, capacity-building for stakeholders, management of organic and inorganic waste, as well as nutrition and health education aligned with directives from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).

The research illustrates the ongoing progress of MBG implementation in Central Java. As of October 2025, a total of 1,596 Food and Nutrition Provision Units (SPPG) have been established, representing 49.4 percent of all districts and cities. These data provide an essential foundation for local governments to refine implementation strategies, particularly in strengthening regional independence in providing nutritious food.

Through its involvement in this research initiative, FEB UNS reaffirms its active role as a strategic partner for government institutions in formulating evidence-based policies. This contribution also aligns with FEB UNS’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to ending hunger, improving health and well-being, and fostering partnerships for development.