China’s Regulation of Meal Delivery Apps: A Potential Benchmark for EU Legal Reform

The rapid expansion of the e-commerce sector has significantly transformed consumption patterns, particularly in terms of food access and delivery. The proliferation of internet-based platforms and innovative business models has rendered online meal ordering more accessible than ever before. In China, the exponential growth of the food delivery industry has generated significant convenience for consumers but has also given rise to new food safety challenges. In response, China has become the first country to establish specific legal requirements governing online food sales from a safety perspective. This article examines the regulatory framework governing China’s online meal delivery sector, with a particular focus on assessing the effectiveness of its food safety measures. It further examines whether China’s regulatory framework for meal delivery apps could serve as a benchmark for strengthening the European Union’s legal framework and shaping future regulatory reforms in this field.