Promoting Behavioral Change in Food Consumption through Free Nutritious Meals: An Analysis of Household Food Consumption Patterns in Indonesia

Child health and nutrition issues in Indonesia remain a challenge, particularly related to stunting, malnutrition, and underweight. This study aims to identify household food consumption patterns in Indonesia using Susenas 2023 data and a descriptive analysis approach, in order to provide inputs for the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG). The findings show that: (1) food and non-food expenditures are relatively balanced, but less prosperous households tend to allocate a larger share to food; (2) unhealthy food consumption remains below 10% of total food consumption, with no significant differences across economic groups; and (3) households with school-age children show higher unhealthy food consumption patterns across all welfare levels. These findings highlight the relevance of the MBG program in supporting lower-income groups with larger food expenditure shares, promoting healthy food consumption across social groups, and targeting school-age children as a priority group. Policy recommendations include comprehensive healthy eating education and consideration of a phased universal approach in the distribution of MBG benefits.