Jakarta, 31 Januari 2025 - So Nice, a brand under Japfa Food - JAPFA’s downstream business entity providing quality and affordable animal-based protein -has launched the “Zona Main So Nice – The Champion of Protein Snacks” program across 380 schools in Java and Bali. The initiative is a testament to Japfa Food’s commitment to raising awareness of the importance of animal protein intake in children through fun and educational snack-based engagement. The program will take place during the first semester of 2025.

Indonesia continues to face significant nutritional challenges, particularly low animal protein intake among children. Studies show that over 80% of Indonesian children and adolescents are deficient in animal protein. This underscores the need for early educational movements involving children, parents, and teachers at schools. Given the essential role of animal protein in children's growth and daily activities, continuous education is crucial.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Epi Taufik, S.Pt, MVPH, MSi, IPM (Professor Dr. Engineer Epi Taufik, Bachelor of Animal Science, Master of Veterinary Public Health, Master of Science, Certified Professional Engineer), from the National Nutrition Board’s Expert Council explained, “Animal protein plays a key role in supporting immune function, cell structure, and child development. With a more complete essential amino acid composition, animal protein has a much higher biological value and net protein utilization (NPU) than plant-based protein. This means the body absorbs and uses it more efficiently for cell maintenance and growth. A lack of animal protein can lead to stunted growth, a weakened immune system, and reduced learning concentration.”

“Education about the importance of animal protein can help prevent malnutrition and improve children’s health. Parents and teachers can work together to create environments that promote healthy eating both at home and at school—including when choosing snacks that contain animal protein,” he added.

Understanding the challenges of educating children on healthy snack choices, PT So Good Food is committed to introducing awareness programs at the elementary school level, engaging teachers and parents to actively share knowledge with children on the importance of consuming animal protein.

Pritha, Chief Marketing Officer of PT So Good Food stated, “We recognize that Indonesia still faces nutritional issues, especially in terms of low animal protein intake among children. One contributing factor is the lack of awareness. That’s why this year we’ve introduced ‘Zona Main So Nice – The Champion of Protein Snacks’, a program designed to make learning fun and engaging for children. This holistic approach involves not just the children, but also parents and teachers, so that the message resonates at home and school alike.”

Arief Tirtana, S.Pd, Guru dan Content Creator (Bachelor of Education), a teacher and content creator, shared, “In today’s world, educating children requires a more creative and exciting approach. Kids need more than just information—they need joyful, memorable experiences. When learning becomes an exciting adventure, they absorb and understand concepts more easily. As educators, we must adapt to their world, create colorful interactions, and make each lesson a delightful experience.”

Pritha Pritha added, “We understand that teaching elementary school children requires an engaging method. That’s why we’ve created interactive games like a giant snakes-and-ladders game that many students can play together. Through these games, children not only learn the importance of animal protein, but also build teamwork, communication skills, fair play, and solidarity. These games are gifted to schools so they can continue to be used and enjoyed by students.”

“Our goal is to create real change in children’s dietary habits by promoting the daily intake of animal protein through better snack options. So Nice is a ready-to-eat animal protein snack designed for children, produced with modern technology and meeting food safety standards. It can serve as a practical and nutritious option to meet their daily protein needs,” Pritha concluded.