Chinese families are becoming more cautious about ordering pre-made meals for Lunar New Year celebrations following a controversy over food quality and transparency involving a popular influencer and a restaurant chain.
As the 2026 Lunar New Year approaches, families across China are re-evaluating their choices of pre-made meals for their reunion dinners due to a recent scandal that has raised concerns about food quality. This year, the annual feast, which is central to Spring Festival traditions, is overshadowed by a food safety dispute involving a renowned internet celebrity and a major restaurant chain. This row has sparked a broader discussion about food transparency in the country, particularly as many households aim to be more mindful of their dining expenses during the festive season.
The influencer's public criticism of the restaurant's meal quality has led many consumers to consider more traditional homemade dishes over convenience foods. One sales manager from Henan expressed his ambivalence towards pre-made meals, highlighting a desire for quality that is often perceived lacking in these offerings. This sentiment reflects a shifting attitude among consumers who, while busy with work and deviating towards convenience, are now prioritizing quality and transparency, especially during significant family gatherings.
The implications of this trend signify a potential shift in the food industry, pushing restaurants and food providers to reconsider their marketing strategies and product quality. As families choose to invest more time and resources into preparing meals themselves, the traditional cooking methods may see a resurgence, altering the landscape of ready-to-eat meal options in China and encouraging a new emphasis on home-cooked dishes during the Lunar New Year festivities.
