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China Tries to Shift Appetite for Extreme Eating Shows

A colorful food display highlighting traditional food culture with bowls of rice and fresh vegetables, avoiding waste.

The Chinese government is advising consumers to resist extreme eating shows that promote unhealthy eating habits and contribute to food waste. These shows have gained popularity despite prior regulatory measures. The Consumer Association emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards responsible food consumption, especially among youth.

HONG KONG (Reuters) – The Chinese government urged consumers on Tuesday to carefully consider their viewing habits, specifically regarding extreme eating shows, which have surged in popularity online. Officials pointed out that these shows, which often feature participants consuming huge quantities of food, lead to significant food waste and send unhealthy messages about diet. “Consumers should rationally resist bad content,” they said in a statement, highlighting the dangers of such programming.

Recent examples of extreme eating in China include challenges that involve consuming excessive amounts of instant noodles, dumplings, and hamburgers at rapid pace. This call to action from China’s Consumer Association represents a part of broader efforts to manage the rising trend of these shows, which have continued to gain traction despite previous regulatory attempts as far back as 2020.

The shows garner large audiences excited by the spectacle of binge eating, often pushing the limits of what individuals can physically consume, which concerns regulators. In the statement, the association remarked, “Not only does it seriously deviate from the true connotation of food culture, but it also causes heartbreaking food waste.” They stressed that this trend undermines traditional Chinese values like diligence and thrift.

The regulatory body additionally expressed worries that these programs spread unhealthy ideas about food, especially impacting youth. One part of the stark message included a reminder that “every porridge and every meal should be thought of as hard-earned.”

To combat this issue, China had already taken steps in 2020 to tighten regulations, banning clips that encourage food waste. The country adopted a law in 2021 aimed at reducing food waste and released a plan last year to increase food production while limiting waste.

The Consumer Association also encouraged citizens to avoid engaging with or promoting extreme eating content online, recommending that viewers block accounts that disseminate this type of show. It added that creators of these programs should also take action and refrain from producing such content, stating that, “The focus of creation should be shifted to exploring the cultural connotation of the true nature of food.”

This announcement follows a recent directive from Beijing that prohibits civil servants from dining out in groups larger than three, responding to concerns over health incidents linked to excessive alcohol consumption at larger gatherings. Meanwhile, rising obesity rates, especially among children, are also a growing concern, especially post-COVID when many turned to online food delivery services due to reduced opportunities for physical activity.

In summary, China’s push against extreme eating shows highlights serious concerns over food waste, public health, and cultural values. With a focus on promoting rational consumer behavior, the government hopes to mitigate the adverse effects these shows have on society, especially among younger audiences. Regulatory bodies may continue to strengthen rules around food-related content as obesity rates rise and cultural integrity is called into question in the modern digital landscape.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

Nia Simpson is a dedicated and insightful journalist specializing in health and wellness reporting. With a degree from Howard University, Nia has contributed to various leading health magazines and online platforms. Her ability to combine empirical research with personal narratives has enabled her to create content that informs and empowers her readers. Nia’s commitment to highlighting often-overlooked health issues has earned her commendations in the field.

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