Beijing MBA student Chen Qiaoling created a feeling of disbelief, even laughter, in her peers and parents when she announced in 2012 that she wanted to help solve the country's food safety problem.

But she found motivation in herself as she, together with another 20 fellow students, researched news reports, laws and regulations, and talked to restaurant owners and produce vendors.

"We knew we could not provide a once-and-for-all solution to the problem. But if we could do a little of something on a daily basis, we might be able to make a difference," said Chen.