Kitchen wizards establish on-demand careers

Hu plans to launch a new platform aimed at part-time cooking enthusiasts, allowing them to pick up orders posted by users. The system will provide basic checks like ID and health certificates.

"On-demand home cooking is more affordable and flexible for budget-conscious consumers," he says, adding that the trend reflects changing consumption habits among younger generations who, fueled by rising incomes, are increasingly investing in health, convenience, and quality of life.

China's "on-demand economy "has diversified rapidly in recent years, with services ranging from in-home elderly care to organizing home spaces. These offerings are hailed for meeting personalized demands, which promote consumption and create much-needed new job opportunities.

The number of flexible workers in China exceeded 265 million in 2024, including 175 million engaged in platform-based gig work, according to an industry report by Hangzhou-based Gongmall. By 2050, the sector's total revenue is expected to exceed 50 trillion yuan.

Still, the fast-growing on-demand chef industry is not without risks and shortcomings. While recognizing its contribution to flexible employment and urban lifestyles, Hu Junjie, a lawyer based in Hubei, says safety and liability concerns remain due to a lack of regulations. The lawyer thus calls for a clearer legal framework, better worker protections, and more oversight from relevant platforms and authorities.