Core Viewpoint - The debate between Luo Yonghao and the restaurant chain Xibei regarding "pre-prepared dishes" highlights the importance of transparency in food sourcing and preparation practices [1][2]. Group 1: Definition and Consumer Perception - Pre-prepared dishes, defined by relevant authorities, are meals made from one or more food products that undergo industrial pre-processing and require heating or cooking before consumption [1]. - Consumer opinions on pre-prepared dishes vary; some appreciate their convenience and affordability, while others express concerns about food safety, nutritional loss, and diminished freshness [1]. Group 2: Transparency and Quality Control - The discussion emphasizes the need for businesses to be transparent about their use of pre-prepared dishes, ensuring consumers are informed about the nature of the products they purchase [2]. - Pre-prepared dishes are not inherently of low quality; with strict controls over ingredient selection and processing, high standards can be achieved [2]. - There is a call for enhanced food safety risk management throughout the production, storage, transportation, and sales processes to ensure product freshness and safety [2]. Group 3: Consumer Rights and Pricing - The Consumer Rights Protection Law mandates that consumers have the right to know the true nature of the products they buy, necessitating clear communication from businesses regarding pre-prepared dishes [2]. - Businesses should differentiate pricing between freshly made dishes and pre-prepared options, ensuring consumers perceive value for their money [2].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing dispute between Luo Yonghao and Xibei Youmian Village regarding the "pre-made dishes" issue has drawn significant public attention, leading to Xibei's commitment to rectify its production processes and Luo's decision to monitor the situation without pursuing further legal action [3][4]. Company Response - Xibei issued an apology acknowledging the gap between its production processes and customer expectations, promising to adjust its central kitchen processing to on-site preparation by October 1 [3][4]. - Xibei is also in discussions with suppliers to shorten the shelf life of its products while ensuring food safety [3]. Market Reaction - Following the developments, several pre-made dish-related stocks surged, with companies like Delisi and Huifa Foods hitting their daily price limits, and Guolian Aquatic experiencing a 12.43% intraday increase before closing up 5.03% [4]. - The incident has reignited consumer interest in the pre-made dish industry, highlighting the potential for growth despite existing challenges [4]. Industry Standards - Recent regulatory efforts have aimed to standardize the pre-made dish industry, with various local standards being introduced to enhance food safety and quality [6]. - The market is expected to benefit from clearer regulations, which may strengthen industry self-discipline and favor leading brands [5]. Market Size and Growth - The pre-made dish market in China is projected to reach 485 billion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth of 33.8%, and is expected to grow to 749 billion yuan by 2026 [7]. Competitive Landscape - Despite the market's rapid growth, many listed companies in the pre-made dish sector reported declining profits in the first half of 2025, with some facing significant losses [8][9]. - Companies like Guolian Aquatic reported a loss of 550 million yuan, attributed to decreased revenue and increased asset impairment losses [9]. Consumer Sentiment - Consumers express a desire for transparency and choice regarding pre-made dishes, indicating a need for better communication from companies about their products [10].

Core Viewpoint - The recent events involving Luo Yonghao and Xibei have sparked renewed consumer interest in the "pre-prepared dishes" industry, leading to significant stock price increases for related listed companies on September 15, 2025 [1][10]. Industry Overview - The pre-prepared dishes industry is gradually entering a path of standardized development, with regulations and standards being established in recent years. However, challenges such as low entry barriers and varying consumer perceptions complicate market entry for new players [3][4]. - In March 2024, a joint notification from several government departments outlined clear definitions and standards for pre-prepared dishes, marking the beginning of a standardized development path for the industry [4]. Market Growth - According to iMedia Consulting, the market size of China's pre-prepared dishes reached 485 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 33.8%. The market is expected to grow to 749 billion yuan by 2026 due to technological advancements and supportive policies [5]. Competitive Landscape - Despite rapid market growth, the industry faces intense competition, characterized by low entry barriers, product homogeneity, and a crisis of consumer trust, leading to declining profits across many companies [6][9]. - Financial reports from various pre-prepared dish companies for the first half of 2025 indicate a general decline in net profits, with several companies reporting losses. For instance, Guolian Aquatic Products reported a loss of 550 million yuan [7][9]. Company Performance - Key financial metrics from several pre-prepared dish companies for the first half of 2025 include: - Longda Meishi: Revenue of 782 million yuan (-19.5% YoY), gross margin of 12.43% (+1.24% YoY) - Guolian Aquatic Products: Revenue of 1.65 billion yuan (-18.36% YoY), net loss of 550 million yuan - Huifa Food: Revenue of 734 million yuan (-17.75% YoY), net loss of 31 million yuan - Aixin Food: Revenue of 7.604 billion yuan (+0.8% YoY), gross margin of 20.52% (-3.39% YoY) [7][9]. Consumer Insights - Consumers express a desire for transparency and choice regarding pre-prepared dishes, indicating that they are not opposed to the concept but seek better information about the products [10].