Translating food safety and nutrition policy into school-based practice: Evidence from Indonesian primary schools

Foodborne diseases and poor nutrition remain major public health challenges, particularly among school-aged children. Although schools are recognised as key settings for promoting healthy eating and food safety behaviours, evidence to guide integrated school-based programmes in Indonesian primary schools remains limited. This study aims to explore current conditions, existing programmes, implementation challenges, and future policy directions to inform the development of an integrated school-based education model.

Qualitative exploratory study using focus group discussions and semi-structured in-depth interviews.

The study was conducted between April and November 2025 in urban and rural settings in Indonesia. Data were collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews involving 21 stakeholders from the education, health, and food security sectors, including school principals, nutrition experts, curriculum specialists, and teacher working groups. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using NVivo 12 through iterative coding, categorisation, and theme development.

Schools demonstrated institutional readiness and cross-sectoral support for food safety and nutrition education. However, implementation remained fragmented due to the absence of standardised curricula, structured learning modules, and assessment tools, alongside challenges related to informal food vendors, inconsistent canteen hygiene, and limited handwashing facilities. Behavioural change was consistently identified as the primary indicator of programme success. These findings informed the development of the GREENEDU NEXUS model, comprising five interconnected pillars: standardised curriculum, experiential learning, safe and sustainable canteens, green behaviour and food waste reduction, and partnership and advocacy.

The findings suggest that Indonesian primary schools are receptive to an integrated, whole-school approach to food safety and nutrition education. Strengthening curriculum standardisation, improving school food environments, and reinforcing cross-sectoral collaboration are essential in translating policy into sustainable public health practice.