The reunion dinner symbolizes family harmony and prosperity. However, in today’s fast-paced world, "Pre-prepared Dishes" (PPDs) have become a popular choice for busy professionals. In China, this market is expected to exceed 700 billion yuan by 2026, and the trend has significantly impacted the Malaysian market. By mastering the art of selection and preparation, your New Year meal can be both efficient and heartwarming.

The Pros and Cons of Pre-prepared Dishes

Dietitian Chuang Jhen Kong notes that PPDs are a result of culinary industrialization. They offer a "middle ground" for modern families—retaining the ritual of cooking while removing 90% of the tedious prep work (cleaning, chopping, and seasoning).

• Advantages: They reduce cooking time from hours to under 20 minutes and are generally cheaper than dining out or ordering delivery.

• Risks: Due to regulatory grey areas in Malaysia, some products may have vague labeling, excessive sauce with little meat, or high levels of sugar, sodium, and oil used to mask less-than-fresh ingredients.

Two Strategies for a "Dignified" Meal

1. PPDs as the "Main Event": Use PPDs for complex, time-consuming "hero dishes" like Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Braised Pork, or Roasted Lamb Chops. Let the factory handle the slow-stewing while you focus on the gathering.

2. Fresh Elements for Vitality: The biggest flaw of PPDs is the lack of "wok hei" (breath of the wok) and fresh greens. Balance the meal by stir-frying simple seasonal vegetables (like broccoli or bok choy) while the main dish heats up. This adds essential fiber and vitamins.

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How to Choose Wisely: Reading Labels

Dietitian Chin Zi Rui emphasizes that PPDs are not inherently "unhealthy"—it depends on the ingredients and processing. In Malaysia, PPDs generally fall into two categories: Retort Technology (shelf-stable like cans) and Frozen PPDs.

Key Selection Tips:

• Check the Label: Ensure the product lists the manufacturer, production date, expiry, and license number.

• Nutrition Check: Look for low-sodium (<0.12g per 100g) and low-fat (<3g per 100g) options.

• Cooking Method: Prioritize "steamed, boiled, or poached" dishes over "braised or deep-fried" ones.

• Certifications: Choose brands with HACCP or GMP certifications to ensure food safety standards are met.

The Healthy Eating Formula: Moderation & Diversity

To stay healthy during the festivities, follow two keywords: Moderation and Diversity.

• The 211 Concept: Fill your plate with two parts vegetables/fruit, one part protein, and one part carbohydrates. Since PPDs are often greasy and low in fiber, pairing a heavy dish like Braised Pork with fresh fruits or cold cucumber salads is essential.

• Colorful Variety: Brighten the table with a spectrum of nutrients—red (Lion's Head meatballs), yellow (Poached Chicken), green (Stir-fried greens), and even blue (Butterfly Pea rice).

• Safety First: Consume PPDs within 24 hours of opening. For frozen items, portion them out before freezing to avoid repeated thawing. Always follow heating instructions to ensure the food is cooked through and free of bacteria.

Ultimately, pre-prepared dishes aren't meant to replace the kitchen but to liberate it, allowing us to spend less time at the stove and more time with the people who matter.

Original Article: Sinchew Media 12 Feb 2026 Interview Miss Chin Zi Rui and Zhen Kang