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BEIJING - A Chinese city has slapped price controls on its most famous dish - a homely bowl of beef noodles - after an outcry from residents.
Lanzhou locals have been alarmed at the increase in prices. Rising beef and flour costs have almost doubled the cost of a large bowl to 5 yuan (84c).
"Since June, soaring rises in the price of noodles have left residents feeling helpless," a China News Service report said.
In a return to old-fashioned price controls, the city government has ruled that a big bowl can cost no more than 2.5 yuan, and a small bowl 2 yuan.
"Violators will be severely punished," the rule warns.
- REUTERS
