Jakarta (ANTARA) – As Ramadan approaches, Indonesia’s Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) is ramping up its efforts to ensure food safety, safeguarding public health and supporting Muslims in their observance of the holy month.
BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar announced on Friday that enhanced monitoring measures are being implemented to detect and prevent the circulation of hazardous substances in food and beverages. “During Ramadan, we will intensify our inspections, particularly targeting harmful additives such as borax, formalin, and even plastic,” he stated.
The agency is particularly focused on scrutinizing food items commonly consumed for iftar (breaking the fast), as well as monitoring expiration dates to prevent the sale of expired products. “We are reinforcing our pre-Ramadan inspections to ensure that all iftar foods meet safety standards,” Ikrar emphasized.
With 76 technical implementation units (UPTs) stationed nationwide, BPOM is mobilizing a workforce of 6,700 personnel to conduct thorough inspections across the country. “From Sabang to Merauke, our team is dedicated to ensuring food safety during Ramadan,” he added.
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These efforts include direct on-site inspections at traditional markets, food production centers, retail stores, and mini markets to verify compliance with food safety regulations. “We will be conducting field inspections to guarantee that food items meet the required standards,” Ikrar confirmed.
Despite budgetary constraints, BPOM remains committed to carrying out its duties effectively. Ikrar assured that the agency is optimizing available resources to maintain high standards of public safety. “Efficiency is our priority. We will continue working diligently within our budgetary limits, ensuring that our efforts align with the President’s directives for public welfare,” he stated.
BPOM’s proactive measures highlight the government’s commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring that food products available during Ramadan are safe for consumption.