Cup noodle facts for kids
![]() A container of Cup Noodles
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Alternative names | Cup Noodles |
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Type | Instant noodles |
Place of origin | Japan |
Region or state | Tokyo |
Created by | Momofuku Ando |
Invented | 1971 |
Other information | "Cup Noodle" and "Cup Noodles" are Registered Trademarks of Nissin Foods |
Cup noodle is a popular type of instant noodles that comes in its own cup. It's a quick and easy meal! These noodles are already cooked and dried. They come with tasty flavoring powder or sauce. You just add hot water, wait a few minutes, and your meal is ready. People all over the world enjoy cup noodles as a quick and simple food.
Contents
The Story of Cup Noodles
Cup noodles were invented by a Japanese food company called Nissin Foods. In 1971, Nissin introduced their famous Nissin Cup Noodles. This was a big step forward for instant food.
Before this, instant noodles were usually sold in packets. The idea of putting them in a cup made them even easier to prepare. You didn't even need a bowl! Later, dried vegetables were added to the cups. This made the meal more complete, like a full instant soup. Both "Cup Noodle" and "Cup Noodles" are special names owned by Nissin Foods.
Cup Noodles Around the World
Cup noodles are enjoyed in many countries. Each place often has its own favorite brands and flavors.
Cup Noodles in South Korea

In South Korea, cup noodles are called Keop-ramyeon. They are very popular there. Some well-known brands include Nongshim's Bowl Noodle Soup and Shin Cup Noodle Soup. Another popular one is Samyang's Hot Chicken Flavor Ramen.
South Korea actually eats the most instant noodles per person each year! Young adults, especially those aged 20 to 49, eat them more often. Cup noodles are a big part of the food people eat in South Korea.
Cup Noodles in Mexico
Cup noodles arrived in Mexico in 1990, brought by the brand Maruchan. They became so popular that many people in Mexico just call all instant noodles "Maruchan."
Today, other local brands like "La Moderna" and "Herdez" also make their own cup noodles. Nissin, the original creator, has also become popular in Mexico.
Cup Noodles in the Philippines
In the Philippines, you can find many different brands of cup noodles. Some popular ones are Lucky Me, Payless, and Nissin (which is a different company from Japan's Nissin Foods). Other brands include QuickChow, Maggi, and Ho-Mi. These noodles are sold in packets, paper cups, or foam containers.
Cup Noodles in Sweden
In Sweden, cup noodles are usually sold for about 10 Swedish Kronor (SEK) per package. They are a quick and affordable meal option.
Cup Noodles in the United Kingdom
A very common type of instant noodles in Britain is Pot Noodle. This brand was first sold in 1977 by Golden Wonder. Later, a company called Unilever bought it in 1995.
Pot Noodles often use artificial flavors. Many flavors, like "Chicken and mushroom," are actually suitable for vegetarians because they don't contain real meat. You can find Pot Noodles in almost every supermarket and convenience store across the UK. Just add boiling water, and they are ready to eat!
Cup Noodles in the United States
In 1972, Nissin Foods brought their "Nissin Cup Noodles" to the United States. They came in a foam cup, which made them very popular. Soon after, many other companies started selling similar instant noodle products. This helped cup noodles become a favorite quick meal across the country.
See also
In Spanish: Vaso de fideos para niños