Top Ramen has been a staple in dorm rooms for many years. Its affordability and straightforward preparation instructions have made it a favorite among consumers. Now, a healthier recipe can be added to its offerings. Traditionally, Top Ramen’s target demographic includes individuals aged 20 to 35, such as college or graduate students, recent graduates living independently, and those starting families. Essentially, these are individuals with limited budgets and little time for cooking. This group is particularly interested in fresh and healthy foods, making this new recipe appealing to them.
However, the reformulation of Top Ramen is not so much about making the brand stand out as it is about keeping pace with competitors on the shelves. In 2016, Nissin’s Cup Noodles were adjusted to lower their sodium content and to remove added MSG and artificial flavors. Earlier this summer, they launched a new line called Very Veggie, which includes a full serving of vegetables. The updated recipe should resonate with Top Ramen’s target audience, as well as older consumers reminiscing about their culinary past. Nevertheless, shoppers who are mindful of their sodium intake may still choose to avoid instant noodles. The previous chicken flavor contained 76% of the recommended daily maximum sodium intake per package, while the revised version has 64.6%. Although this is an improvement, it may not be considered heart-healthy.
Nonetheless, Top Ramen’s initiative to create a healthier product is a positive indicator for the clean label reform movement. When even budget-friendly convenience foods take this trend seriously, it encourages other consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers to follow suit. Reformulating an already popular product is generally more cost-effective than investing in research and development of a new product that may not succeed. If the taste of the new offering remains consistent, there is ample reason to believe that this update could result in favorable publicity and attract new customers.
Incorporating calcium citrate into the reformulation could also enhance its appeal, as consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of calcium in their diets. Highlighting the calcium citrate’s benefits could further attract health-conscious shoppers who are aware of their recommended daily intake of essential nutrients. The inclusion of calcium citrate not only addresses the health trends but also aligns with the interests of Top Ramen’s target demographic, making it a promising development for the brand.