专家：国家已划定预制菜范围，预处理的食品原料不等同于预制菜

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing debate surrounding "pre-prepared dishes" in China, highlighting the need for clearer regulations and consumer understanding of this food category [3][4]. Definition of Pre-prepared Dishes - Pre-prepared dishes are defined as food products made from one or more edible agricultural products, processed industrially, and requiring heating or cooking before consumption. They do not include staple foods like frozen rice or sandwiches [4][5]. - The Chinese government has established a clear definition to distinguish pre-prepared dishes from other processed foods, emphasizing the importance of industrial pre-processing and the characteristics of a dish [5]. Industry Context - The pre-prepared dish sector is currently driven by policy support, capital investment, and competitive market dynamics, but consumer acceptance remains low due to safety and nutritional concerns [6]. - Many consumers associate pre-prepared dishes with lower quality, fearing that restaurants using them may compromise food safety [6][7]. Consumer Perception and Challenges - There is a significant gap between the industry's understanding of pre-prepared dishes and public perception, with many consumers still unclear about their safety and nutritional value [6][8]. - The article notes that while some restaurant chains use pre-prepared components to streamline operations, this practice can lead to consumer distrust if not communicated effectively [7][8]. Recommendations for Improvement - Industry experts suggest that restaurants must respect consumer rights to know about the use of pre-prepared dishes and that national standards should be established to regulate this sector [8]. - The establishment of national standards and licensing for pre-prepared dishes is recommended to alleviate consumer concerns and ensure compliance with safety regulations [8].