Persepsi Ibu Rumah Tangga terhadap Dampak Program Makan Bergizi Gratis terhadap Status Gizi Balita

This study aims to describe the perceptions of housewives regarding the impacts, benefits, constraints, expectations, and perceived effectiveness of the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) on the nutritional status of toddlers at the Posyandu in Lueng Bata Village, Banda Aceh. The study used a descriptive qualitative approach with a phenomenological orientation. Data were collected through observation, questionnaires, interviews, and documentation. The questionnaire involved 24 respondents, while interview data were obtained from 10 housewives and 2 Posyandu cadres. The data were analyzed descriptively through data reduction, categorization, interpretation, and comparison among data sources. The findings show that housewives generally expressed very positive perceptions of MBG. The questionnaire recapitulation showed 57.71% of responses in the very good/very positive category, 33.33% in the good/positive category, and 8.96% in the fairly good/neutral category. Interview findings indicate perceived benefits in meeting toddlers' daily nutritional needs, improving appetite and physical activity, and reducing household food expenditure. The main constraints were limited menu variation and occasional delays in distribution. Respondents expected the program to continue consistently, with more varied menus, especially soupy dishes, child-friendly taste, and additional milk or healthy snacks. Overall, MBG was perceived as effective in supporting toddler nutritional status within the local Posyandu context.