Core Viewpoint - The recent dispute between internet celebrity Luo Yonghao and Xibei has brought the topic of "pre-prepared dishes" into the spotlight, highlighting the negative perceptions associated with them in Chinese dining culture [1][2]. Group 1: Cultural Context of Freshness - Chinese food culture is deeply intertwined with the concept of freshness, where the time from farm to table is crucial for quality [3][5]. - Freshness is not only about time but also about taste, with specific regional preferences dictating what is considered fresh, such as live fish being killed on-site [3][4]. - The preference for fresh ingredients is evident in consumer behavior, as seen in the popularity of live poultry markets prior to health crises like SARS [3][4]. Group 2: Pre-prepared Dishes and Consumer Perception - Pre-prepared dishes are viewed as the antithesis of freshness, with consumers associating them with lower quality and safety concerns [6][7]. - The cultural resistance to pre-prepared dishes mirrors historical aversions to canned foods, with data showing significantly lower consumption rates in China compared to Western countries [6]. - The introduction of long shelf-life products raises consumer anxiety about freshness and quality, leading to skepticism about the nutritional value of such items [7][19]. Group 3: Central Kitchen Model in the Restaurant Industry - The central kitchen model has become prevalent among chain restaurants, with 68.3% of such establishments utilizing this system to streamline operations and reduce costs [10][14]. - Central kitchens allow for standardized food preparation, which can diminish the traditional role of chefs and the uniqueness of regional cuisines [11][12]. - The efficiency of central kitchens supports rapid expansion and profitability for restaurant chains, as seen in the case of Haidilao's subsidiary, which supplies ingredients to over 2,000 outlets [13]. Group 4: Market Trends and Future Outlook - The pre-prepared dish market in China is projected to grow significantly, with a market size of 419.6 billion yuan in 2022 and an expected annual growth rate of around 20% over the next few years [14][17]. - Despite the convenience offered by pre-prepared dishes, there remains a strong consumer preference for fresh, locally sourced ingredients, indicating a potential challenge for the industry [17][22]. - The need for transparency in the pre-prepared food supply chain is emphasized, as consumers seek assurance regarding the safety and quality of these products [20][21].