The Effectiveness of Local Supplementary Feeding (PMT) on Improving the Nutritional Status of Undernourished Toddlers Aged 24–59 Months at Kassi-Kassi Health Centre

Abstract

Background: Wasting and undernutrition in toddlers remain significant public health challenges in Indonesia, requiring effective nutritional interventions such as local Supplementary Feeding (PMT). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week (56-day) local PMT program on the nutritional status of undernourished toddlers aged 24–59 months in the Kassi-Kassi Health Centre working area in Makassar City. Methods: This research used a retrospective descriptive-analytic design with a quantitative approach. A purposive sample of 72 undernourished toddlers was selected. Data on body weight, height, and program compliance were collected and analysed. Statistical significance was determined using the paired t-test to compare the Weight-for-Height (WFH/BB-TB) index before and after the intervention. Results: The findings revealed high program compliance, with 76.4% of toddlers routinely consuming the local PMT. Anthropometric measurements showed a steady upward trend; the mean body weight increased from 10.9 ± 1.59 kg to 11.4 ± 1.73 kg, while the mean height rose from 90.2 ± 7.26 cm to 91.2 ± 7.34 cm. Notably, 97.2% (70 toddlers) transitioned from undernourished to well-nourished status by the end of the program. Statistical analysis yielded a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant improvement in nutritional status. Conclusion: The local PMT program is effective in improving the nutritional status of undernourished toddlers. The use of acceptable local ingredients, high compliance, and consistent support from health cadres and parents drives success. These results support the continued implementation of localised nutritional interventions to combat wasting.