Core Viewpoint - The popularity of "white people food" is declining as urban youth in China seek healthier and more flavorful meal options that align with their culinary culture [7][14][24]. Group 1: Trends in Food Preferences - "White people food" is characterized by its simplicity and minimalism, often consisting of raw or cold ingredients, which has made it popular among busy workers [7][14]. - The emergence of "yellow people food," which incorporates Chinese flavors into healthy meals, is gaining traction and becoming a hot topic on social media [14][19]. - The demand for diverse and satisfying meals is leading to a shift away from the restrictive nature of "white people food" towards more balanced and culturally relevant options [19][23]. Group 2: Nutritional Insights - According to the "2022 Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents," a balanced diet should include a variety of food types, which "white people food" often fails to provide [6]. - "Yellow people food" offers a healthier alternative that meets nutritional needs while also being culturally satisfying, emphasizing the importance of flavor and variety [15][22]. - Both "white people food" and "yellow people food" can achieve health and weight loss goals, but the latter is more aligned with the preferences of the Chinese palate [21][22]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - Chinese cuisine is making inroads into Western markets, with brands like Yang Guo Fu and Hai Di Lao expanding internationally, indicating a growing acceptance of Chinese flavors abroad [5][17]. - The rise of Chinese-style light meals is reflected in the success of new health-focused brands that are gaining popularity on food delivery platforms [17][19]. - The evolution of meal options from simple salads to more complex, flavorful dishes demonstrates a shift in consumer preferences towards meals that are both nutritious and enjoyable [19][23].

Core Viewpoint - The trend of "not eating too much" has become a daily routine for many middle-class white-collar workers, reflecting their pursuit of health and social status through selective eating habits [1][5][40]. Group 1: Eating Habits of Middle-Class Workers - Light meal brands like Wagas and gaga focus on the middle-class demographic, offering expensive salads that have become popular among white-collar workers [2][11]. - The concept of "appropriate hunger" is seen as a more advanced form of health maintenance, with studies indicating that maintaining a state of 70% fullness can stabilize blood sugar, lipids, and emotional levels [3][10]. - Many young professionals are using high-priced salads and multiple cups of coffee to control their appetite, which may not be a healthy approach despite aligning with their elite image [4][6]. Group 2: Social Implications of Eating Choices - The eating habits of the middle class reflect their desire for higher social status, as they often mimic the consumption patterns of the upper class, leading to "conspicuous consumption" [5][40]. - A significant portion of respondents (61.5%) view healthy food as a luxury, with higher-income areas having better access to fresh produce [16]. - The trend of "keeping hunger" is often misinterpreted, leading to extreme dietary practices like intermittent fasting or carb restriction, which may contradict the original health intentions [26][42]. Group 3: Health and Nutrition Awareness - Many young middle-class individuals lack proper nutritional knowledge, often misunderstanding the concept of "keeping hunger" as skipping meals or alternating between fasting and binge eating [6][42]. - Research indicates that moderate hunger can enhance cognitive function and reduce fatigue, as the brain tends to ignore sleep needs when hungry [23][24]. - The consumption of high-priced organic foods requires proper timing and pairing to truly reflect their nutritional value, rather than simply being a status symbol [41].