千亿产业狂奔背后的“身份焦虑”，预制菜如何破局？

Core Viewpoint - The key to resolving the challenges in the prepared food industry lies in rebuilding trust among consumers, businesses, and the government [8] Industry Standards and Regulations - The existing food safety standard system in China, established over 60 years, is capable of supporting the safety requirements for the prepared food industry [2][4] - As of 2025, there are 2,242 effective national food standards in China, covering various aspects including food safety, quality, and labeling [2] - Current standards for specific prepared food categories exist, but the challenge lies in defining "prepared food" as a distinct category [3][4] Prepared Food Definition and Challenges - There is a lack of consensus on the definition and scope of "prepared food," leading to significant differences in understanding among industry experts, businesses, and consumers [3][4] - Some experts argue that existing standards for related food categories are sufficient, while others believe a new standard for prepared food is necessary [3][4] Market Growth and Consumer Perception - The prepared food industry is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected market size of 4,850 billion yuan by 2024 [6] - There is a gap between public expectations and reality regarding prepared foods, often stemming from a lack of scientific understanding of food preservation methods [6][7] Recommendations for Improvement - The resolution of the prepared food dilemma requires collaborative efforts from the government, businesses, and consumers, focusing on improving the standard system and enhancing product transparency [7][8] - Businesses should invest in research and development, improve product quality, and effectively communicate the benefits of prepared foods to consumers [7][8]