Measuring Parents’ Trust in the Halal Status of the Free Nutritious Meal Program at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

Abstract

This study aims to examine parents’ trust in the halal status of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Program at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Negeri (MIN) Salatiga. A qualitative approach with a descriptive research design was employed. The participants consisted of parents whose children were enrolled in the MBG program at MIN Salatiga. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and document analysis, and analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that parents’ trust is shaped by four key factors: religious values, the service quality of the Nutritional Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG), transparency in food management, and halal certification. Parents expect the meals provided not only to meet students’ nutritional requirements but also to comply with the Islamic principles of halal and thayyib. Furthermore, transparent information regarding food ingredient sourcing, processing procedures, and halal certification strengthens parents’ confidence in the program. The study concludes that the effectiveness and public acceptance of the MBG program in Islamic primary schools depend not only on its ability to improve students’ nutritional well-being but also on maintaining halal compliance, ensuring high-quality food services, and implementing transparent food governance. These findings highlight the importance of integrating halal assurance into school feeding programs to foster public trust and support the sustainability of government nutrition initiatives.