Core Viewpoint - The controversy between Luo Yonghao and Xibei has evolved from a debate about the use of pre-prepared dishes to a broader discussion on how to promote transparency in the pre-prepared food industry, including standards and public perception [1][4]. Industry Overview - The pre-prepared food market in China has seen significant growth, with the market size increasing from 244.5 billion yuan in 2019 to 516.5 billion yuan in 2023, reflecting an average annual growth rate of over 20%. However, a slight decline is expected in 2024, with a projected market size of 546.6 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 5.83% [3]. Historical Context - The concept of pre-prepared food was not initially aimed at end consumers. The industry began to take shape in the 1990s with the entry of fast-food chains like McDonald's and KFC into China, which introduced a model of fresh produce processing and distribution [5][6]. - The evolution of pre-prepared food products transitioned from raw to cooked, and from mixed to pre-prepared and ready-to-eat meals over the years [6][7]. Regulatory Developments - The term "pre-prepared food" was first mentioned in a 2016 document by the Ministry of Agriculture, which aimed to enhance the processing of agricultural products [8][9]. - In 2022, the China Culinary Association released a standard defining pre-prepared food, categorizing it into three types: ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook, and pre-cleaned vegetables [19]. - A joint notice issued in March 2024 by multiple government departments further clarified the definition of pre-prepared food, emphasizing that it should not include staple foods or ready-to-eat items [20][21]. Market Dynamics - The pre-prepared food industry is undergoing a transformation from quantity expansion to quality selection, with a notable decline in the registration growth rate of related companies from 683.8% in 2023 to 147.8% in 2024 [24]. - The market is characterized by a diverse range of companies, including those extending from upstream agricultural sectors to downstream pre-prepared food production, as well as specialized pre-prepared food enterprises [25][26]. Consumer Trends - Consumer acceptance of pre-prepared food is increasing, with 81% of consumers valuing convenience and time-saving aspects, while 33.5% appreciate the cost-effectiveness [47]. - The consumption of pre-prepared food in the restaurant sector accounts for approximately 64%, while retail accounts for about 36% [47]. Innovations and Challenges - The industry is leveraging technological advancements in preservation methods, such as low-temperature storage and rapid freezing, to eliminate the need for preservatives [47]. - The integration of pre-prepared food with central kitchen operations is becoming more prevalent, although there is a clear distinction between the two concepts [30][39].