Long known as an affordable meal, cai fan now faces criticism for inconsistent pricing as inflation climbs
Economy rice, also known as cai fan or mixed vegetable rice, has long been a staple affordable meal in Singapore. But in recent months, complaints have resurfaced about inconsistent pricing, with inflation only intensifying these frustrations. When Gary Huang was charged S$10.20 for a simple economy rice meal in February, he took to Facebook to share his experiences of paying as little as S$5 or as much as S$9 for similar meals at the same stall. His post received over 150 comments, sparking discussion on price disparities.
Mr. Huang highlighted the lack of consistency, explaining that some stall assistants charged significantly more than others. He attributed these variations to individual workers’ discretion rather than any fixed pricing, leading him to question whether certain dishes, such as fish, automatically increase meal costs.
Founder of the Makansutra food guide, KF Seetoh, noted that inconsistencies may be due to fluctuating supply costs or portion sizes. Regular customers, like Mdm Jan, mentioned that late-night discounts to clear remaining dishes or different pricing for vegetable dishes containing small amounts of meat are common practices. However, this lack of transparency frustrates many who feel uncertain about what they’ll pay.
Fish is often a costly addition, and prices have risen steeply. Associate Professor Lau Kong Cheen of the Singapore University of Social Sciences noted that fish prices rose sharply in early 2023, complicating cost predictability. Nasi padang, a similar dish selection style, has also seen prices of S$10 or more for simple meals in high-traffic locations.
The inconsistency of pricing, particularly for economy rice, underscores a broader concern over transparency. Many consumers agree that stalls could display individual item prices or use a color-coded system to clarify pricing, similar to methods used in conveyor-belt sushi restaurants. Amid inflation, more consistent pricing could ease the budgeting challenges many consumers face, helping them navigate the rising costs of living.
