Based on common Chinese customs and cultural norms, bringing food into someone’s home when entering is generally considered impolite or even rude in many traditional settings. This could potentially lead to the discovery of what you brought.
In Taiwan and some other regions with heavier Taiwanese influences, it’s more accepted to bring small gifts like desserts, fruits, or snacks (known as “” or “xiāng bāo” () meaning “gift bread”) when visiting friends or family at their homes. However, this is still not a universal practice across all of China.
In general, if you’re unsure about the cultural norms and expectations in a specific situation, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and ask your host beforehand whether bringing food would be welcomed or appreciated.