Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding "pre-made dishes" has led to a public dispute between Xibei's chairman, Jia Guolong, and prominent figure Luo Yonghao, with Jia firmly denying the use of pre-made dishes in Xibei's offerings and announcing intentions to sue Luo for damaging the brand's reputation [1][3][6]. Group 1: Company Response - Jia Guolong publicly responded to Luo Yonghao's criticism on September 11, asserting that none of Xibei's dishes are pre-made and emphasizing the significant impact this incident has on the brand's reputation [3][6]. - Starting September 12, Xibei opened its kitchens in 370 locations nationwide for consumer visits to demonstrate the authenticity of their food preparation [6][10]. - Jia clarified that while Xibei does engage in pre-processing of ingredients, it does not equate to using pre-made dishes as defined by national standards [6][10]. Group 2: Consumer Perception and Concerns - The incident highlights a broader misunderstanding between consumers and restaurants regarding the definition of "pre-made dishes," with consumers expressing concerns over food safety, quality, and value [8][10]. - Consumers are generally wary of pre-made dishes due to fears of additives, freshness, and the perceived lack of flavor compared to freshly prepared meals [8][11]. - Luo Yonghao's influence as a key opinion leader has amplified the negative perception of Xibei, potentially leading to a decline in customer visits if the situation is not managed effectively [7][10]. Group 3: Industry Insights - Crisis management experts suggest that if Xibei handles the situation well, it could turn the crisis into an opportunity to enhance consumer trust in the brand [7]. - The ongoing debate about pre-made dishes reflects a growing consumer demand for transparency regarding food preparation methods in the restaurant industry [10][11]. - Experts note that while many restaurants utilize pre-made dishes to improve efficiency, consumer preferences increasingly lean towards quality and safety, making it essential for restaurants to align their offerings with customer expectations [11].