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Some People Say Panda Express Isn't 'Authentic' Chinese Food. The CEO Says He 'Takes No Offense' to That

@todayshow

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Panda Express

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Why it worked

The video addresses a common point of contention about a popular fast-food chain, framing it as a discussion about authenticity and cultural adaptation in cuisine. The CEO's candid and pragmatic response, along with visuals of the food, likely resonated with viewers who enjoy Panda Express and sparked debate.

Summary

The CEO of Panda Express addresses criticism that the chain's food is not authentic Chinese cuisine. He states that he doesn't know what authenticity means and that their customers decide what sells, with younger generations enjoying their food.

Structure

1Criticism of Panda Express's authenticity
2CEO's response to criticism
3Discussion of different cuisines and customer choice
4

Original caption

Panda Express is known for its orange chicken, fortune cookies, egg rolls, and more signature menu items. But is any of it “authentic” Chinese food? Does it matter? On Aug. 26, Panda Express CEOs and a couple, Andrew and Peggy Cherng, who have been married 50 years, spoke with Savannah Sellers on TODAY about their successful restaurant chain and responded to its criticisms. Panda Express is currently the largest Asian restaurant chain in the U.S., with more than 2,500 locations nationwide. Despite its popularity, some call out the chain for not serving “traditional” Chinese cuisine. But Andrew Cherng says he isn't bothered by those critics. “I take no offense at all,” he told Sellers. “You know, I don’t know what authenticity is because there are so many cuisines out there.” He added, “Whatever sells, we don’t make that decision. Our guests make that decision.”