China's high-speed railway passengers can now order meals online to enjoy a more diverse range of food, according to China Railway Corporation (CRC).
Starting from July 17, passengers can order meals offered by the trains as well as other restaurant brands via the official train ticket booking website 12306.cn and its mobile app. The meal will be delivered to the passenger's seat by railway staff.
"Meals on Wheels" Before
Despite the launch of food delivery services on board high-speed trains, one of the country's most commonly eaten meals on trains is instant noodles. On almost any journey you will see passengers using the hot water machines in between carriages to prepare instant noodles.
Restaurant cars on board also provide pre-packaged hot meals along with other snacks, fruits and beverages. However, poor condition of meals, high prices and limited options result in a lot of complaints.
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People also like to bring their own food on board prior to setting off. Will the advent of online ordering put an end to the days of instant noodles?
Online Meal Ordering Service Now
Passengers on some Chinese bullet trains will be able to order food online from restaurants and have it delivered to their seats starting on Monday, as the railway operator looks to diversify meal choices.
The China Railway Corp ticket-booking website and app will allow users who intend to pass through selected stations to preorder meals, either from the train's catering service or partner businesses, such as KFC.
Approved restaurant brands can list their products on the website and will be subject to food safety supervision by railway authorities.
Initially, the service will be available at 27 high-speed rail stations in 24 cities, mainly provincial capitals and major metropolises including Shanghai, Tianjin, Zhengzhou, Guangzhou and Nanjing.
"Meals on Wheels"
In Other Countries/Regions
Japan
Their is no Meals offering service in Janpan’s Shinkansen. People usually buy bentos in train station before get on the train. Being exquisite and Japanism, “Railway Bentos” have become a kind of distinctive culture in Japan.
Taiwan
Good measure with reasonable price. It is usually sold at TWD60-90 (RMB12-18).
Germany
German Railway -- Inter City Express, provides passengers with quality meal services. Not only a Bordbistro (a dining car) that offers snacks, soft drink and coffee, but also a Bordrestrant (a canteen) on the ICE.
America
Passengers can enjoy delicious Western food on American railway. The price, however, almost twice as the ordinary restaurants.
India
If passengers intend to order food, steward will come and mark down what they need, and food will be delivered at designated meals time. An economic meal with balanced portion of vegetables and meats.
North Korea
Various cuisine contained in a vintage foam box with an additional box of rice.
No comparison, no damage. Hope this move can meet the diverse and individualized demands of passengers, introducing more brands and restaurants, diversifying meal choices on the train and providing richer and better services to benefit passengers.
Source:
CGTN
Chinadaily
BaiduTieba
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