一财社论：法规持续完善方能保障预制菜行业健康发展

Core Viewpoint - The pre-prepared food industry is rapidly developing, but it faces challenges such as inconsistent recognition, incomplete regulations, and lack of unified standards, which hinder healthy growth [1][2]. Industry Development - The pre-prepared food industry has a broad development prospect, as highlighted in the 2023 Central Document No. 1, which emphasizes the importance of standardization and regulation in this sector [4]. - The global pre-prepared food market is significant, with the U.S. market projected to reach $47.56 billion in 2024, making it the second-largest globally. Japan's market is also notable, with a scale exceeding 10 trillion yen and 24% of office workers relying on pre-prepared foods for meals [4]. - China's pre-prepared food industry, although starting later than its international counterparts, is growing rapidly. Projections indicate the market size will exceed 800 billion yuan by 2025 and reach approximately 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030 [4]. Public Concerns and Industry Issues - The development of the pre-prepared food industry has raised public concerns and controversies, which are considered normal. However, any misleading information or food safety issues are intolerable [5]. - Recent commentary emphasizes that pre-prepared food should neither be demonized nor overly westernized, and public figures should be cautious with their influence [5]. Regulatory and Standardization Efforts - There is a need for improved standards and regulations to address the controversies surrounding pre-prepared food. A preliminary definition of pre-prepared food was issued by six departments in March 2024, but it has not fully resolved public recognition issues [6]. - A national standard for food safety regarding pre-prepared food is being developed, which is a complex process requiring comprehensive revisions [6]. - The revised Food Safety Law will take effect on December 1, 2023, focusing on specific regulatory aspects, which can serve as a critical point for improving standards in the pre-prepared food sector [6]. Regulatory Enforcement - Strengthening regulatory enforcement is essential to ensure existing regulations are effectively implemented [7]. - The recent notification emphasizes two key areas: ensuring quality safety measures in the production and distribution of pre-prepared food, and promoting transparency in the use of pre-prepared food in the restaurant sector to protect consumer rights [8]. - Addressing these issues will play a crucial role in alleviating public concerns and disputes regarding pre-prepared food [8].