Core Viewpoint - The popularity of "white people food" is declining as urban youth in China seek healthier and more flavorful meal options that align with their culinary culture [7][14][24]. Group 1: Trends in Food Preferences - "White people food" is characterized by its simplicity and minimalism, often consisting of raw or cold ingredients, which has made it popular among busy workers [7][14]. - The emergence of "yellow people food," which incorporates Chinese flavors into healthy meals, is gaining traction and becoming a hot topic on social media [14][19]. - The demand for diverse and satisfying meals is leading to a shift away from the restrictive nature of "white people food" towards more balanced and culturally relevant options [19][23]. Group 2: Nutritional Insights - According to the "2022 Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents," a balanced diet should include a variety of food types, which "white people food" often fails to provide [6]. - "Yellow people food" offers a healthier alternative that meets nutritional needs while also being culturally satisfying, emphasizing the importance of flavor and variety [15][22]. - Both "white people food" and "yellow people food" can achieve health and weight loss goals, but the latter is more aligned with the preferences of the Chinese palate [21][22]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - Chinese cuisine is making inroads into Western markets, with brands like Yang Guo Fu and Hai Di Lao expanding internationally, indicating a growing acceptance of Chinese flavors abroad [5][17]. - The rise of Chinese-style light meals is reflected in the success of new health-focused brands that are gaining popularity on food delivery platforms [17][19]. - The evolution of meal options from simple salads to more complex, flavorful dishes demonstrates a shift in consumer preferences towards meals that are both nutritious and enjoyable [19][23].

Core Insights - The trend of transforming traditional Chinese cuisine into low-calorie meals is gaining momentum, driven by the desire for healthier eating options among consumers [2][4][5] - The emergence of affordable and nutritious options, such as Haidilao's self-service lunch priced at 22 yuan, is appealing to health-conscious individuals [8][11] - Social media platforms like Xiaohongshu are playing a significant role in promoting calorie assessments of various Chinese dishes, making healthy eating more accessible [4][24] Industry Trends - The shift from restrictive diets to a more sustainable approach to healthy eating reflects a broader change in consumer attitudes towards food [5][23] - The market is witnessing a rise in low-calorie products, with examples like Guizhou red sour soup gaining popularity, evidenced by over 30,000 mentions on Xiaohongshu [5][24] - Traditional Chinese meals are being redefined as healthy options, with modifications to reduce calories while maintaining flavor, such as changing spicy hot pot to clear broth [13][16] Consumer Behavior - Consumers are increasingly favoring home-style meals over expensive and often unsatisfying light food options, leading to a resurgence in traditional Chinese dining [20][21] - The preference for familiar and comforting foods is evident, as individuals report better success in weight management with traditional meals compared to trendy diets [21][23] - The trend of "everything can be a low-calorie meal" is emerging, showcasing the adaptability of various cuisines to meet health-conscious demands [17][16] Market Opportunities - The focus on health and calorie awareness is prompting restaurants to provide clear nutritional information and innovate their menus to cater to this demand [24][27] - New business models, such as meal delivery services that offer customized low-calorie options, are gaining traction among busy professionals [24][27] - The popularity of low-calorie sauces and seasonings is on the rise, indicating a growing market for products that enhance the flavor of healthy meals [24][27]