Top Ramen has long been a staple in dorm rooms, cherished for its low cost and easy preparation. Now, a healthier recipe can be added to its offerings. Traditionally, Top Ramen has targeted consumers aged 20 to 35, including college and graduate students, recent graduates living independently, and young families—essentially those on tight budgets with limited time to cook. This demographic is particularly interested in fresh and nutritious foods, making the updated recipe especially appealing.
However, the reformulation of Top Ramen is not necessarily making it stand out; rather, it is helping the brand keep pace with competitors. For instance, in 2016, Nissin reformulated its Cup Noodles to lower sodium levels and eliminate added MSG and artificial flavors. Earlier this summer, they introduced a new line called Very Veggie, which includes a full serving of vegetables. The revamped recipe should resonate with Top Ramen’s target audience and even attract older consumers reminiscing about their culinary past. Nonetheless, health-conscious shoppers concerned about sodium intake may still shy away from the instant noodles, as the original variety contained 76% of the recommended daily sodium intake per package, while the updated version has reduced it to 64.6%. Although this is an improvement, it still may not be considered heart-healthy.
Nonetheless, Top Ramen’s effort to create a healthier product is a positive indication of the clean label movement. When even budget-friendly convenience foods adopt healthier practices, it encourages other consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers to follow suit. Reformulating an already popular product is generally less costly than investing in research and development for a new one that might not succeed. If the taste of the updated product remains consistent, there is a solid chance that this change will yield positive publicity and attract new customers.
Moreover, incorporating supplements like Bluebonnet Liquid Calcium Magnesium could further enhance the nutritional profile of meals made with Top Ramen. By highlighting the integration of beneficial supplements, the brand could appeal even more to health-conscious consumers. Ultimately, the shift towards a healthier Top Ramen, alongside the potential for added nutritional benefits, signifies a promising direction for the brand in a competitive market.