China is the latest Asian market to initiate a revision of pre-packaged F&B regulations governing the labeling of products, following similar actions taken in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines in recent years. Scheduled to come into effect later this year, the upcoming regulations aim to impose tighter controls on food preservatives in pre-packaged items while also addressing labeling practices for both domestically produced and imported goods. Notably, a distinction will be made between instant food and pre-packaged food categories.

The initiative reflects a broader trend across China, where 25 provinces have already issued local standards pertaining to ready meals and pre-packaged foods since the beginning of 2024. Many of these regions have highlighted their commitment to supporting the standardization and development of the ready-meal industry in their respective government work reports for 2024.

Reflecting on this growing trend, Xuannan Yang, a member of the research team focusing on ‘Alternative Food Systems, Standards, and Sustainability,’ led by assistant professor Li Xueshi from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, sheds light on the evolving landscape of the pre-packaged food industry. She notes a significant surge in demand for pre-packaged dishes during the recent Chinese New Year holiday season, indicating a potential shift driven by the industrialization and commercialization of China’s food systems amidst globalization.

As China’s younger generations, particularly Gen Z, grow accustomed to the convenience offered by pre-packaged foods, preferences are shifting away from traditional cooking methods. Yang observes that many individuals no longer romanticize home-cooked meals prepared by their mothers or grandmothers, recognizing the hidden labor involved in the process.

In anticipation of the regulatory changes, drafts for national standardization of pre-packaged foods have been submitted and are currently under review by the Food Safety Commission office at the State Council. The proposed regulations are expected to introduce stricter guidelines on labeling, mandating manufacturers to provide clearer information on compound ingredients and country of origin.

The State Administration for Market Regulation has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with relevant departments to promote standardization in the pre-packaged food sector, aiming to support its high-quality development.

Despite the regulatory push, public discourse surrounding pre-packaged foods has intensified on Chinese social media platforms, particularly during the holiday season. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on traditional culinary practices and the quality of pre-packaged offerings.

Acknowledging these concerns, some businesses are already focusing on innovation to enhance product quality. In a recent interview with Nestlé Professional, Paul Nagelkerken, the country business manager, emphasized the company’s commitment to developing food concepts that prioritize quality and taste while ensuring ease of preparation.

As China’s F&B industry braces for regulatory changes, stakeholders are navigating the evolving landscape, balancing consumer preferences for convenience with the demand for quality and traditional culinary experiences. With anticipation building around the impending regulations, the industry is poised for transformation, ushering in a new era of standards and innovation in pre-packaged food offerings.