Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the cultural and economic significance of the traditional dish "Hu La Tang" from Xihua County, Zhoukou City, Henan Province, emphasizing its unique ingredients, historical roots, and growing popularity in urban areas, particularly in first-tier cities like Beijing [5][6][8]. Group 1: Cultural Significance - Hu La Tang is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, showcasing the unique culinary techniques of Xihua County [2]. - The dish has historical ties to the region's water transport, serving as a favorite among boatmen and merchants, which contributes to its cultural identity [5]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The Hu La Tang industry in Xihua County has created significant economic opportunities, with 16 local seasoning companies and over 60 product variations developed to meet consumer demand [8]. - The industry supports approximately 20,000 people in related sectors, with an annual output value exceeding 4 billion yuan, indicating a robust agricultural processing transformation rate of over 75% [8]. Group 3: Business Expansion - The Hu La Tang brand has expanded into major cities, with notable openings in Beijing, reflecting a growing trend of regional cuisine gaining traction in urban markets [5][6]. - The "Lao Yang Jia" food company has established a standardized production facility with an annual output value of 150 million yuan, utilizing multiple sales channels including supermarkets and e-commerce [7]. Group 4: Future Development - The Hu La Tang industry aims for standardization, branding, and internationalization, with a dedicated development center established to enhance industry standards and practices [8]. - The dish is not only a culinary staple but also a cultural emblem, representing a deep connection to the region's heritage and identity [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the cultural and economic significance of "Hu La Tang" (spicy soup) from Xihua County, Zhoukou City, Henan Province, emphasizing its unique production techniques and the growth of its industry as a local economic pillar [2][5][6]. Group 1: Cultural Significance - Hu La Tang is recognized as a traditional landmark food in Henan, with Xihua County's version being included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2021 [2]. - The soup's popularity is rooted in its historical connection to the water transport system in Xihua Town, where it was favored by boatmen and merchants [5]. - The soup has transcended local boundaries, attracting not only locals but also visitors from various regions, indicating its broad appeal [5]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The Hu La Tang industry in Xihua Town has become a significant economic driver, with 16 seasoning companies and over 60 product variations developed to meet consumer demand [6][7]. - Approximately 16,000 people from Xihua Town operate Hu La Tang businesses across nearly 4,600 stores nationwide, generating an income increase of 1 billion yuan [7]. - The industry supports around 200,000 individuals in related sectors, with an annual output value exceeding 4 billion yuan, showcasing a high agricultural product processing conversion rate of over 75% [7]. Group 3: Industry Development - The Hu La Tang production facility in Xihua Town has over 10 production lines, achieving an annual output value of 150 million yuan, and has diversified sales channels including supermarkets and e-commerce [6]. - The local government has initiated a strategy for standardization, branding, and internationalization of Hu La Tang, establishing a development center to create industry standards and improve quality control [7].