The government on Tuesday launched a caring food coupon programme, allowing elderly people in need to taste dishes at discounted prices from the Lunar New Year holiday.

About 50,000 seniors, including those living alone, will receive a set of five coupons so they can try signature dishes from five catering groups for just HK$25 each.

The coupons will be accepted from January 29 to late March.

Chief Secretary Eric Chan, who officiated at a launching ceremony, said he hopes the elderly people will feel warmth through the programme.

"This is a collaboration between the government, the business sector and the community, building a harmonious and caring society together," Chan said.

"We are going to test out this programme, and see how to review it based on the experience. We hope more catering groups and restaurants will participate in the future."

One of the fast food chains taking part in the programme, Café de Coral, said it is a meaningful way to help the elderly.

"This time, we have HK$25 baked pork chop rice, which is our signature dish. All the Café de Coral stores will offer this special price for the programme's participants," general manager Nelson Lo said.

Other chains will offer dishes like boneless Hainan chicken rice, fish burgers, and char siu rice with sunny-side up eggs.