127 Counseling and Demonstration of Complementary Foods (MPASI) Menu Based on Local Food for Stunting Prevention in Children Aged 6–23 Months

Abstract

Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem characterized by impaired physical growth and brain development in children, commonly occurring during the first 1,000 days of life. One of the contributing factors to stunting is the improper provision of complementary feeding (MPASI), in terms of quality, quantity, and timing. This activity aimed to increase the knowledge of pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and mothers with children aged 6–23 months about the importance of nutritious complementary feeding as a preventive measure against stunting. A counseling session and a demonstration on how to prepare MPASI using local food ingredients were held on Thursday, August 6, 2025, in Plarangan Village, Karanganyar Sub-district, Kebumen Regency, Central Java. The activity was attended by 24 participants and employed a pretest-posttest method using 10 multiple-choice questions to assess knowledge improvement. The results showed an increase in the average score from 93.33 on the pretest to 99.58 on the posttest, indicating enhanced participant understanding of the delivered material. The MPASI menu demonstrated included Bubur Soto Ayam Santan (6–8 months), Nasi Tim Ikan Telur Sayuran (9–11 months), and Nasi Sup Telur Puyuh Bola Tahu Ayam (12–23 months), featuring innovations in combining animal and plant-based protein sources, varied textures, and appealing presentation using local ingredients. This activity proved effective as an educational and preventive measure to reduce the risk of stunting by improving MPASI feeding practices in the community.