China supermarket chain makes US$1.2 million payout to customers over dirty noodles
- Nationwide Pang Dong Lai chain is famous for thoughtful treatment of both customers and employees
A famous supermarket chain in China has paid out 8.8 million yuan (US$1.2 million) in compensation to customers following online complaints about the hygiene of their rolling dough dish.
Pang Dong Lai’s payout astounded many but also attracted praise for showing a commitment to consumer rights.
Originating in the northern inland province of Henan, the supermarket chain has established a national reputation for positive treatment of its employees and customers.
“I don’t want to let our customers down. When customers are disappointed, it feels like a knife cutting into my heart,” said Pang Dong Lai’s president and founder, Yu Donglai.
However, their reputation took a sharp turn on the evening of June 25 when a customer reported on Douyin that the food processing environment for rolling dough at a Pang Dong Lai outlet in Xinxiang in Henan was unsanitary.
A traditional snack known for its chewy and soft texture, rolling dough is made by fermenting dough to create noodles that are typically served with soy sauce, vinegar and chili.
