Tips

Instant Noodle Slurping: Why Don’t We Ever Touch the Bottom of the Cup?

Have you ever wondered why your instant noodles are always suspended halfway in the cup, never touching the bottom? Many assume this is a cost-cutting measure by the manufacturers. However, the truth is that these noodles are designed this way to ensure better preservation and even cooking.

Administrator

11 August, 2024

The 5,000 Leaves, 2,000 Grains Principle

In reality, there are products with similar net weights and packaging as cup noodles. The current packs, especially for potatoes, may look big, but when opened, more than half of it is air.

This layer of air is nitrogen, which helps preserve the potatoes for a longer duration. The packaging principle for these products is called the “5,000 Leaves, 2,000 Grains” concept, which is now also applied to cup noodles.

Why Don’t Cup Noodles Ever Touch the Bottom of the Cup?

According to the website of the Instant Ramen Museum in Osaka, Japan, hanging the noodles halfway down the cup reduces breakage during transportation.

Additionally, this space allows for stable water circulation when preparing the noodles, resulting in more evenly cooked noodles without over or undercooked spots.

Cooking Tips for Instant Noodles

Instant noodles or cup noodles are only a temporary solution to hunger as they lack sufficient nutrition and are believed to cause acne, especially in females.

Blanching the noodles before cooking is recommended if time allows. This helps reduce the potential negative effects of simply adding seasoning and pouring boiling water over the noodles.

Add vegetables, meat, or fish to your noodles to ensure you’re getting the necessary nutrients and to reduce the heat from the fried noodles.

Now you know why your cup of noodles always seems to have less than expected, and why the noodles are hung halfway down the cup. Stay tuned for more interesting articles!

Frequently asked questions

Slurping instant noodles is a cultural phenomenon, particularly popular in Asian countries. It is believed that slurping enhances the flavor and overall experience of consuming instant noodles. The act of slurping creates a loud, satisfying sound that is almost ritualistic for some.

The design of instant noodle cups is such that the bottom is often left unprinted and plain. This is because the cup is designed to be held at the bottom, and the company aims to keep the branding and design visible when the product is displayed on shelves. As a result, people tend to avoid touching the bottom of the cup as it may be perceived as unsanitary or simply out of habit.

Definitely. Instant noodles are a global phenomenon, but the way they are consumed varies across cultures. In some Asian countries, it is common to add a variety of toppings and ingredients to enhance the flavor, such as eggs, vegetables, or meat. In other cultures, instant noodles may be viewed as a quick and convenient snack, often consumed straight from the cup without any additional ingredients.

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preference and comfort. However, most people find it comfortable to hold the cup with one hand on the side or near the bottom, using the other hand to manipulate the noodles and control the slurping.

Absolutely. The design of the cup can influence the overall experience of consuming instant noodles. For example, a well-designed cup with an ergonomic shape can make it easier and more comfortable to hold, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the product. Additionally, attractive packaging and branding can create a positive first impression and influence purchase decisions.