预制菜如何消解成长烦恼

Core Insights - The pre-prepared meal market in China is projected to reach 485 billion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth of 33.8% [1] - The controversy surrounding pre-prepared meals is driven by consumer perceptions and the industry's growing industrialization [1] Consumer Concerns - The primary complaint from consumers is that pre-prepared meals are perceived as "not tasty," as traditional cooking methods are deeply ingrained in Chinese culinary culture [3][9] - Many consumers resort to pre-prepared meals due to time constraints, indicating a demand for convenience despite taste concerns [4][6] - There is a significant issue with transparency, as many restaurants do not disclose that they serve pre-prepared meals, leading to feelings of being overcharged [6][10] Industry Perspectives - Industry experts acknowledge that the taste and quality of pre-prepared meals are often seen as inferior, but they argue that definitions of "delicious" can vary [9][12] - The definition of pre-prepared meals is often misunderstood by consumers, leading to confusion about what constitutes a pre-prepared meal [10] - The market for pre-prepared meals is expected to continue growing, with a potential split in the restaurant industry between freshly cooked and convenient pre-prepared options [13][16] Regulatory Developments - The upcoming national standards for pre-prepared meals aim to clarify definitions and improve food safety regulations, which could enhance consumer trust [14][15] - There is a call for better industry self-regulation and transparency to address consumer concerns about food safety and quality [15] Market Trends - The pre-prepared meal sector is experiencing rapid growth, with approximately 28,000 related companies in China and a 120.43% increase in new registrations last year [13] - The market penetration of pre-prepared meals in China is currently between 10% to 15%, indicating significant room for growth compared to over 60% in developed countries [16]