Core Viewpoint - The pre-prepared food market in China is rapidly expanding, with a market size that has doubled in three years, despite consumer resistance and health concerns [4][16]. Group 1: Consumer Perception - Consumers increasingly associate pre-prepared food with unhealthy eating, leading to a negative perception that overshadows traditional culinary distinctions [5][7]. - The stigma surrounding pre-prepared food has grown, with many consumers rejecting it outright, despite its prevalence in restaurants [8][9]. Group 2: Industry Adaptation - Many restaurants are adopting pre-prepared food to reduce labor costs and improve efficiency, with some reporting a 17% decrease in food costs and a 14% increase in net profit after switching [12][13]. - The use of pre-prepared food has allowed restaurant operators to manage high operational costs, particularly in urban areas where rent and labor are significant expenses [13][14]. Group 3: Market Growth - The pre-prepared food market in China reached a size of 516.5 billion yuan in 2023, indicating substantial growth and potential for further expansion [16]. - The central kitchen model has become more common in the restaurant industry, contributing to the standardization and efficiency of food preparation [16]. Group 4: Quality and Innovation - There is a distinction between low-quality pre-prepared food and high-quality options, with the latter potentially offering superior ingredients and techniques [17]. - The industry is undergoing a technological transformation, with a focus on improving production efficiency and meeting consumer demand for high-quality food [17].