Published on 29th November, 2023

In today's fast paced world, convenience is key especially when it comes to food. Instant Ramen, also known as Instant Noodles, comes to mind when you think of a cheap, tasty and an easy to prepare meal. Let's explore how instant noodles became popular worldwide.

History of Instant Noodles

Instant Noodles were first invented in Japan by Momofuku Ando of Nissin Foods in 1958. Ando was inspired to create a quick, easy meal option during post-war food shortages. After a yearlong of experimenting and research, the first ramen product, Chicken Ramen was created. Basically, after watching hsi wife make tempura, he realized that frying the noodles was key. Frying extracted their water so they could be stored for long periods of time and then re-hydrated with water.

The taste and convenience made it a huge hit as it sold 13 million packages in its first year. It was nick-named "magic ramen" because it was ready to eat in just a few minutes. This invention revolutionized the food industry and paved the way for the popularity of instant noodles.

Despite the success, Ando kept invented. Nissin Food introduced Cup Noodles in 1971 which became a global food sensation. Television commercials in the 80's also contributed to the rise in the food industry.

In 2005 Momofuku pushed innovation and creativity to a whole new level by creating a vacuum sealed package of ramen that Japanese astronaut Soichi Noguchi ate it in space. It was named "Space Ramen."

Ando finally retired at the age of 95. What I love about Ando invention is that it wasn't an accidental breakthrough. He thought that instant noodles would be an success and he worked a year to find the solution.

Today, instant-noodle flavors are introduced in Japan every year. China ranks first as per capita consumption followed by South Korea and third by Indonesia.

Why are Instant Noodles so Popular?

Convenience and Affordability

They are a quick, easy meal to prepare requiring only a few minutes of cooking time and minimal ingredients. This makes them the sought-after choice for college students and busy professionals who are short on money and time. 

Instant Noodles are widely available and can be found in almost every grocery store with at least a collection of the world-famous noodle product making them a convenient option for people on the go.

Cultural Influence

A lot of people don't know that Instant Noodles is a Japanese invention because it houses their local taste. In Indonesia, a popular brand instant ramen is called Indomie which is recognized worldwide notably in Nigeria. Indo Food patnered with a Nigerian food company in the late 80's to market its products. It was marketed in a way to imply that Indomie is as important as rice and bread which are staple foods in Nigeria. Due to the population boom in the country, it became a household name.

I asked some of my friends who study abroad, and they said that it serves as a comfort food to them especially when they are home sick. This is because it tastes the same wherever you buy them.

Variety of Flavors

From classic chicken and beef to more unique flavors like kimchi and curry, there is a flavor for everyone. This variety allows consumers to try new and exciting flavors without having to spend a lot of money on a full meal or get bored with the same flavor every time. It also caters for different dietary restrictions with some brand offering vegan and vegetarian options.

In the US, instant noodle flavors such as Beef, Chicken, Shrimp and Oriental are very common. In UK, Pot Noodles makes Southern Style Fried Chicken flavor.

Top Facts about Instant Noodles

1. It took Momofuku an entire year to perfect the recipe.
2. There is a Cup Noodles Museum in Osaka, Japan opened by Ando in 1999. I would love to visit it one day.
3. Ramen noodles were eaten in space in 2005 thereby defying the laws of gravity. 
4. The longest noodle of the world was more than 3 km long which took 17 hours to complete. Thus, holding a world record.
5. According to a survey, the Japanese believe their best invention of the 20th Century was instant noodles.

In summary, the popularity of instant noodles can be attributed to their convenience and affordability, cultural influence and variety of flavors. Momofuku Ando played a major role with three key inventions throughout his life. Chicken Ramen in 1958. Cup Noodles in 1971 and Space Ramen in 2005.

As the demand for quick and easy meals continues to rise, it's safe to say that instant noodles are here to stay.