Food distribution refers to the process where catering companies or food delivery services supply ingredients to institutions such as schools, restaurants, hotels, and more, in response to their ingredient needs. Typically, this is handled by food distribution companies or individual entrepreneurs who purchase a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, fruits, agricultural products, and even meats and frozen goods, from various suppliers. These ingredients are then transported by vehicle to the destination, which can be a unit, school, cafeteria, hotel, restaurant, or community, providing a social and commercial service.

Primarily, it's about meeting customer needs and promptly delivering the required ingredients to their hands. Particularly, the catering distribution model has greatly brought about tremendous convenience for the majority of canteens, eliminating the need for self-purchasing.