Application of Criminal Law to Perpetrators of Criminal Acts in the Distribution of Processed Foods Does Not Meet Food Safety Standards in the Upstream and Downstream Sectors in Palembang City

The research questions are: How is criminal law applied to perpetrators involved in the distribution of processed food that fails to meet food safety standards within the upstream and downstream sectors in Palembang City? And what factors contribute to the occurrence of criminal offenses related to the distribution of processed food that fails to meet food safety standards within the upstream and downstream sectors in Palembang City? This study employs an empirical juridical research method, using both primary and secondary data through a case-based approach. The findings indicate that the application of criminal law regarding the distribution of processed food that fails to meet food safety standards in the upstream and downstream sectors of Palembang City is carried out through supervision and inspections by the BBPOM (Indonesian Food and Drug Authority); however, this process is not yet optimal, as it remains contingent upon proving the elements of the criminal offense and the culpability of the perpetrator. Furthermore, the factors contributing to these criminal offenses include a lack of legal understanding and compliance among business operators, challenges in supervision and law enforcement, limited facilities and infrastructure, low public awareness, and a tendency to prioritize profit and low prices over food safety.