Nanjing University Canteen Stirs Debate Over US$140 King Crab on Menu

A campus canteen at Nanjing University has stirred public debate after introducing high-end seafood items, including a 999-yuan (US$140) Alaskan king crab.

The offering came after students suggested the dish during a "You Order, We Cook" event organized by the university. On November 1, one canteen responded by making the king crab available for individual purchase. The same counter also began selling Boston lobster for 158 yuan and steamed grouper for 68 yuan.

Photos of the luxury seafood soon spread on social media, with some students expressing excitement over the unusual menu, while others raised concerns over affordability and the appropriateness of such premium pricing in a student cafeteria.

Nanjing University issued a statement today clarifying that the king crab was part of a trial promotion at the Ninth Canteen, run by an external catering vendor. The company has since adjusted its menu to provide more affordable and diversified options in line with the fundamental role of a university canteen.

The university reiterated its commitment to serving students with reasonably priced meals, citing existing low-cost options such as breakfast items for 0.01 yuan, vegetable dishes for 0.4 to 0.8 yuan, and set meals priced between 7 and 10 yuan. Initiatives like "Midnight Canteen" and the interactive "You Order, We Cook" program have also been well received by the campus community.

The school added that it will further diversify meal options and improve food quality to provide all students and staff with higher-quality meals and better service at affordable prices.