（经济观察）中国加快制定国家标准 推动预制菜走向“明白菜”

Core Viewpoint - The recent public dispute between the restaurant chain Xibei and internet celebrity Luo Yonghao highlights the differing perceptions of prepared dishes between consumers and restaurant operators, as well as consumer concerns regarding the transparency of information about the use of prepared dishes in restaurants [1] Group 1: Regulatory Developments - The Chinese State Council's Food Safety Committee has organized multiple departments to expedite the formulation of national standards for prepared dishes and promote transparency in their use within the restaurant sector, thereby better protecting consumer rights [1] - A notification issued last year defined prepared dishes at the national level, stating that they do not contain preservatives and are pre-processed for heating or consumption, excluding staple foods [1] - The National Market Supervision Administration clarified that dishes made in central kitchens by chain restaurants do not fall under the category of prepared dishes [1] Group 2: Consumer Perception and Market Trends - The rapid industrialization of the restaurant sector has led to a significant increase in the use of semi-finished products, enhancing kitchen efficiency, while the business model has evolved to combine central kitchens with chain stores [2] - Despite the growth of the prepared dish market, which is projected to reach 674.9 billion RMB by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate exceeding 10%, challenges such as incomplete standards and low consumer trust persist [2] - The ongoing consumer debate emphasizes the need for transparency regarding the use of prepared dishes, with consumers expressing a preference for clear labeling of such products [2][3] Group 3: Consumer Rights and Industry Practices - The Consumer Rights Protection Law in China grants consumers the right to know the true nature of the products or services they purchase, which aligns with the push for clear labeling of prepared dishes in restaurants [3] - Some regions, including Guangdong, Shanghai, and Hunan, are actively exploring measures to promote transparency in the use of prepared dishes, such as requiring labels that indicate "prepared dishes" or "central kitchen production" [3] - Researchers suggest that if operators proactively disclose their definitions of prepared dishes, they could gain consumer trust and benefit from a market return based on integrity [3]