Market Size (2016)
2016
$27.05B
Vertical: CFnBBase Year: 201711 Sections
Market Size (2016)
2016
$27.05B
Projected (2023)
2023
$33.20B
CAGR (2016–2023)
3.0%
3.0%Key Players
108+
Instant noodles are thin, fried noodles that have been dried after being cooked in oil. They are then sold in compact quantities, frequently with a flavour packet of dry herbs. They are a form of fast cuisine that may be made easily. Moreover, they are a particular variety of pre-cooked noodle that are frequently offered in small packets, cups, or bowls. Flour, starch, water, salt, and/or kansui, an alkaline mineral water that comprises sodium carbonate and typically potassium carbonate, are normally its key components. As instant noodles were initially made by flash frying, palm oil is another prominent ingredient. However, air-dried noodles are also accessible today. Seasoning packets including seasoning, salt, and monosodium glutamate are included with instant noodles.
The growing working population has increased the demand of convenience food products such as instant noodles, which is quite easy to cook within a short span of time, which is a vital factor boosting its market growth. For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of workers aged 65 or older has grown by 117% in a span of 20 years, while employment of individuals 75 years or older has likewise increased by 117%. In addition, according to the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) can grow from $3trillion to $9trillion by 2030, and $40 trillion by 2047, if the country’s working population is expected to increase by over 100 million people between 2020-30 is productively employed. In 2020, there were about 900 people (67%) of total population in the working age group of 15-64 in India, which is expected to expand by another 100 million by 2030, despite a declining trend in fertility rate. Apart from this, various strategies adopted by major players in the sector to expand its product portfolio is another factor boosting its market growth. For instance, in September 2020, CG Foods a leading manufacturer of Wai-Wai instant noodle, announced capacity expansion in its India noodles business with an investment of Rs 120 crore. In addition, the company is also planning to launch an entire range not only restricted to instant noodles, the production of the sauces will be through an original equipment manufacturing (OEM) company route and manufactured in India and rolled out for sale here and for its global market as well
The Instant Noodles Market market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% from 2016 to 2023.
Historical performance and future projections (2020–2030, USD Billion)
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View Subscription PlansMomofuku Ando, of Nissin Foods in Japan (born Go Pek-Hok), is credited with creating instant noodles. They debuted in 1958 under the Chikin Ramen brand. Cup Noodles, a dried noodle block in a polystyrene cup, were created in 1971 by Nissin. Instant noodles are sold all around the world under various brand names. Instant noodles are precooked, dry noodle blocks that are typically supplied with seasoning oil or powder. Although the flavouring is frequently loose in the cup of cup noodles, the flavouring is typically in a separate packet. Some instant noodle items come sealed, and it can be reheated to consume them right away. Before eating, dried noodle blocks are boiled or soaked in boiling water. The growing demand of instant noodles among the younger generation coupled with the growing benefits provided by it such as nutritional content, salt, wheat flour, and water are the main ingredients of instant noodles. Various brands of instant noodles have different amounts of micronutrients. Furthermore, quick noodles have minimal levels of calories, protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamins are some of the major factors for its demand among consumers. However, excessive consumption of instant noodles can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, stomach, heart burning, heavy feeling and bloating.
Apart from this, the presence of major government bodies in the region supporting the instant noodles is another vital factor fueling its market growth. For example, World Instant Noodles Association launched in 1997 in pursuit of healthy development of the industry, the association aims to accumulate and share information about the technical issues related to the quality of development of instant noodles, so that the consumers can enjoy it with safety and trust. Besides, the growing demand among consumers for innovative taste has compelled manufacturers to come up various types of instant noodles for the vegetarian as well as the non-vegetarian population. For example, Nissin offers, cup noodles in various flavors such as mazedaar masala, spiced chicken, veggi manchow, tangy tomato, paneer, sea food, rogan josh, chilli chilli chilli, egg, italiano and many more are set to boost its market growth. Furthermore, the growing innovations by major startups present across the globe is set to open up huge opportunities for the instant noodles market. For instance, in September 2021, Immi, the healthier Asian American food company that during the pandemic introduced the first low-carb, high-protein, 100% plant-based instant ramen, has announced a $3.8 million seed round fundraise headed by its top investors
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View Subscription PlansThis report applies a rigorous multi-stage research process combining primary interviews, secondary data sources, and bottom-up market modelling to ensure accuracy and completeness across all segments and geographies.
Base Year
2017
Historical Period
2016 – 2017
Forecast Period
2017 – 2023
Primary Interviews
150+
Historical data (2016–2017) and forecast period (2017–2023)
Our research process spans primary interviews with industry stakeholders combined with comprehensive secondary data analysis, validated through triangulation across multiple independent sources.
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View Subscription PlansThreat of New Entrants
The worldwide instant noodles industry has significant regulatory obstacles that prevent new competitors from entering. Additionally, there are significant upfront costs, particularly when it comes to the production of noodles. However, the existence of several market participants makes it extremely competitive. Due to the market's dominance of the top players, brands are well known. This is a problem for the newcomers. With a growing consumer demand for instant noodles, the global market for them is lucrative. Additionally, over the past few years, the demand for processed foods and beverages has increased, which in turn has accelerated the need for fast foods. Furthermore, the raw material is widely accessible to makers of instant noodles, which is expected to make entrance simpler.
Hence, the threat of new entrants in the instant noodles market is expected to be moderate during the forecast period.
Bargaining Power of Suppliers
Flour vendors, commodities merchants, ingredient suppliers, and company-owned flour mills are the primary raw material providers in the global market for instant noodles. Since they are not relying on a single source, the manufacturers of instant noodles are free to choose between them, which lowers their operational risks. Additionally, the significant supplier concentration in the worldwide market for instant noodles lowers the switching costs for market participants. Additionally, the suppliers' negotiating leverage is hampered by the limited range of product differentiation.
Therefore, the bargaining power of suppliers in the market is projected to be low during the forecast period.
Threat 0f Substitutes
The closest substitutes for instant noodles are Ready-to-eat packed foods/snacks, pasta, cookies, and soups, etc. Even, there is internal competition in the market at the type of level with experimentation with new ingredients and changes in consumer preferences regarding the sourcing of ingredients. Since an increase in the trend of Health-conscious customers' choices may change as a result of increased knowledge about illnesses brought on by numerous chemicals and preservatives included in instant noodles.
Hence, the threat of substitutes in the instant noodles market is expected to be High.
Bargaining Power of Buyers
Buyer bargaining power is the pressure customers put on companies to provide high-quality items at affordable rates. Because there are multiple well-established industry competitors in the market, customers have a variety of brands to choose from, which lowers switching costs and subsequently boosts customer bargaining power. Additionally, consumers frequently experiment with new items on the market and alter their preferences, which strengthens their negotiating position.
Hence, the bargaining power of buyers in the instant noodles market is expected to be high during the forecast period.
Intensity 0f Rivalry
The instant noodles market is highly competitive, which is marked with fierce rivalry among the players in terms of product quality, variety, and pricing. The mature and stagnant market for instant noodles is forcing the market players to emphasize on innovation in terms of flavors and product quality to expand their customer base. Many manufacturers are focusing on reducing production costs to compete in the cut-throat market. They are also engaged in strategic expansions to strengthen their businesses worldwide and survive in the market.
Hence, the rivalry in the instant noodles market is expected to be high during the forecast period.
Market estimates by geography (2023)
InsightAsia Pacific leads with $27.46B by 2023.
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View Subscription Plans| REGION | 2016 | 2017 | 2023 | CAGR | SHARE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asia Pacific | $22.19B | $24.97B | $27.46B | 3.1% | 83% |
| Rest of the World | $2.02B | $2.23B | $2.41B | 2.5% | 7% |
| Europe | $1.07B | $1.18B | $1.27B | 2.4% | 4% |
| North America | $1.76B | $1.93B | $2.06B | 2.2% | 6% |
| Total | $27.05B | $30.32B | $33.20B | 3.0% | 100% |
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View Subscription PlansTotal Market Size
$33.20B
| APPLICATION | REVENUE ($B) | GROWTH RATE | MARKET PENETRATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Pack | $18.90B | 3.0% | 89% |
| Four Pack | $7.71B | 3.0% | 60% |
| Six Pack | $4.77B | 3.0% | 89% |
| Others | $1.82B | 3.0% | 53% |
* Revenue projections based on 2025 estimates. Growth rates represent CAGR 2024–2030. Market penetration indicates current adoption rate within addressable market segments.
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Analytical insights on Instant Noodles Market covering market dynamics, competitive landscape, and strategic outlook.
The Instant Noodles Market market is projected to reach $33.20B by 2023, growing at 3.0% CAGR. The Single Pack segment holds the largest share.
The global instant noodles market is expected to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period and there are various factors driving the growth of the market. Instant Noodles are becoming increasingly popular followed by Rise in Per Capita Income and Disposable Income is majorly driving the market growth. Demand for new flavors provide a lucrative market to the existing players. However, Processed foods are being avoided by health-conscious consumers and Increase in the price of raw materials is restricting the growth of the market. Whereas issues with branding and rising competition are the challenges for the market
People's busy schedules at work are driving up demand for ready-to-eat foods that are easy to prepare and enjoy. Instant noodles have gained a lot of popularity, especially among the working class, teenagers, residents of hostels, bachelors, and those who share a room, among other groups. Because they provide a number of advantages, such as instant appetizers, a longer shelf life, and widespread availability in the worldwide market, easy meals have grown immensely popular among customers. Instant Noodles foods are used to shorten the time of meal preparation at home. Some Instant Noodles can be eaten immediately or after adding some water, heating, or thawing. The majority of Instant Noodles take hardly more than 5 minutes to prepare. Before consumption, they are frequently prepared or packaged so that they may be swiftly and conveniently utilized whenever needed by thawing or heating the meal. It is a fact that Instant Noodles are designed to be inexpensive, delicious, and non-perishable. Instant noodles have grown in popularity since they may be offered as a fast snack or supper. According to the World Instant Noodles Association (WINA), the demand for Instant Noodles is increasing year or year as per the below data.
Instant varieties of noodles are among the most well-liked snacks, and their enormous worldwide appeal will increase the market's revenue over the forecast period
Market companies must prioritize R&D efforts in response to the growing demand for novel tastes. Consumer tastes are always changing as a result of changing lifestyles, eating habits, and a need for diversity. Manufacturers of instant noodles are concentrating on releasing new flavors in order to maintain their place in the worldwide market while catering to consumers' shifting tastes. Market participants have been adding variants to their product lineups in response to the rising desire for new, distinctive tastes. Due to consumers' growing eagerness to explore novel items, market participants could also concentrate on releasing unusual and exotic tastes. For instance, Nissin creates new combination Cup Noodles, where two different flavors are combined to provide a whole new Cup Noodle. And name their new flavor product as Siupoodle, Searry, Cheechili Curmato and Tonso.
Although the Instant Noodles has a good taste and is convenient, there is minimal nutritional benefit provided to the user. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and preferring to adopt healthier eating habits because of the rising prevalence of lifestyle disorders including obesity and heart disease. For the obese population, its high fat and carbohydrate content serves as a constraint. In 2020, 462 million people are underweighted globally, while more than 1.9 billion adults are obese, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) claims that its use is positively linked to obesity and the cardio-metabolic syndrome, which further reduces the product's overall market share. The market for instant noodles is anticipated to see negative effects as consumers become more aware of the harmful effects that preservatives, artificial colors, flavorings, and processing methods used to extend the shelf life of instant noodles have on their health. However, when consuming them frequently, there are certain dietary issues to consider. Because they are deficient in necessary levels of proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, instant noodles alone are an incomplete meal. Manufacturers in the instant noodles industry are facing significant difficulties since most customers feel that consuming instant noodles daily might have considerable negative health effects. Leading instant noodle manufacturers are intensifying their R&D efforts to introduce healthier and more nutrient-rich instant noodles as a solution to this issue
When it comes to Instant Noodles, consumer buying habits are influenced by their brand loyalty. Customers typically prefer recognizable and well-liked brands. The market for Instant Noodles is fragmented, and consumers typically choose branded products over non-branded ones, making it difficult for new market entrants to succeed. The rising instances of government organizations relaxing customs and excise charges on machinery and transport equipment involved with the processing of Instant Noodles have resulted in a reduction in the cost of supply chain activities, which is anticipated to attract national and international companies to enter various product categories. To establish their brand and present their product in a way that captures customer interest, the new companies must make large capital investments. Thus, branding issues are expected to create a challenge for players operating in the Instant Noodles market during the forecast period
Numerous industries throughout the world have been impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic. Markets have been strictly closed in order to achieve social segregation as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak and the subsequent restrictions taken by governments worldwide. Consumers favored home-cooked food and kept bulk supplies of essential goods, particularly instant foods, at home. Therefore, demand for instant noodles during pandemic-induced lockdowns is anticipated to increase due to an increase in the usage of online channels for bulk purchases of commodities and convenient food substitutes. Future market growth for instant noodles is anticipated to be supported by improved supply chain movement. Few impacts of the outbreak of COVID-19 in the instant noodles market have been discussed below:
Impact on Production
The manufacture of instant noodles begins with the acquisition of raw materials such as a variety of flour or Maida and starch, ingredients (spices, condiments, and vegetable oil), and many more. Some of these fundamental ingredients are produced by vendors and distributors. Obtaining raw materials was difficult because the whole planet is still under lockdown and urgent measures were taken to impede the coronavirus's spread, such as physical separation and transportation restrictions. Another crucial factor is labour availability, and producing instant noodles generally suffers from a manpower shortage. The raw materials must be gathered, processed into final items, packaged, and delivered to clients. Due to a shortage of employment possibilities, one of the major issues that every nation has faced throughout the pandemic is the migration of employees to their hometowns.
Impact on Supply Chain
The COVID-19 outbreak has influenced the whole global supply chain as well as the value chain, from the procurement of raw materials to production, packaging, and distribution. The whole supply chain for the instant noodle sector has suffered because of the outbreak. Delivery of instant noodles has been delayed because of lockdown restrictions making it more difficult to transfer the raw materials required to create them. Both domestic and international companies provide the basic materials used to make instant noodles. Due to the necessity of sealing international borders, low quantities of these instant noodles are being produced. Delivering manufacturing units to stores has become more challenging for distributors due to lockdown restrictions. Despite the fact that there is a huge demand for instant noodles worldwide, supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores are all experiencing major shortages.
Impact On Consumer Buying Behavior
In the early stages of the pandemic, Instant Noodle users preferred to eat cooked meals while staying indoors. However, consumers spent most of their time stuck in their homes, preventing them from visiting. Since instant noodles are inexpensive, quick to cook, and only need a few basic tools, each serving has between 300 and 500 calories. Customers are therefore a tempting source of sustenance for those with limited time and money. On the other hand, e-commerce has earned the trust and drawn customers to purchase packaged food online due to aspects like online presence, sanitary packing & speedier delivery methods, discounts & other benefit offerings, etc. With time, the intensity of the pandemic's spread, and consumer immunization, this tendency may vary and alter.
Impact On Store-Based Vs. Online Sales
Major companies in the market for instant noodles are anticipated to shift towards online/e-commerce channels because of lockdown limitations. Consumers are focusing more on non-store-based distribution channels like online/e-commerce channels as a result of the closure of store-based distribution channels including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty stores. The producers of instant noodles that have warehouses and shipping departments sell their products online.
Profiles of 108 companies operating in the Instant Noodles Market market, including revenue, employee count, and market positioning where available.
Showing 108 of 108 companies
PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk
Company Headquarters: Central Jakarta, Indonesia Founded: 1990 Workforce: ~88,205 Company Working: PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk (Indofood) produces and sells several food products in Indonesia and internationally. It operates through various business verticals including noodles; dairy products, including sweetened condensed, temperature, and powdered milk, sterilized bottled, pasteurized liquid, as well as butter, creamer, ice cream, and lactic acid beverages; snack foods, such as cassava, soybean, potato, sweet potato chips, and various extruded snacks, as well as biscuits; culinary products and syrups; nutrition and special foods; and packaging materials; and non-alcoholic beverages such as carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks. The company was formerly known as PT Panganjaya Intikusuma and changed its name to PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk in 1994. PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk is operating as a subsidiary of First Pacific Company Limited.
Acecook Vietnam Joint Stock Company
Company Headquarters: Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Founded: 1993 Workforce: ~50 Company Working: Acecook Vietnam Joint Stock Company (Acecook Vietnam) produces instantly processed food. The company offers instant noodles, instant rice noodles, instant vermicelli, and dried noodles. It serves customers through its distribution network in Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and North America.
Tat Hui Foods Pte. Ltd.
Company Headquarters: Quality Road, Singapore Founded: 1985 Workforce: ~100,000 Company Working: Tat Hui Foods Pte. Ltd. is engaged in the manufacturing of a variety of instant noodles under the brand Koka. The company offers a variety of types that include regular, non-fried, wheat, and vegetarian noodles. Company offers its products through various categories which includes vegetarian vegan, gluten-free, halal, and spicy. The company sells its products in Europe and Asia.
Capital Foods Limited
Company Headquarters: Jogeshwari, Mumbai, India Founded: 1995 Workforce: ~3500 Company Working: The idea of "Global Food Culture" is one in which Capital Foods firmly believes. Through the selection, improvement, and fusion of international delicacies under numerous food brands, they are dedicated to assisting people in experiencing the flavors of the world. Also, they have been a fast-growing food company in India with a significant global presence in the densely populated Indian diaspora market. To accommodate a range of cooking demands, they provide good food and food ingredients. Additionally, the first to recognize and name the distinctive cuisine known as "desi Chinese," which is indigenous to India but adored worldwide, including in the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and Singapore.
ITC Limited
Company Headquarters: India Founded: 1910 Workforce: ~23829 employees Company Working: ITC Limited, formerly known as Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited, is a diversified conglomerate based in Kolkata, India. The company started as a tobacco manufacturer and has since diversified into various sectors, including Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), hotels, paperboards, and packaging, agribusiness, and information technology. ITC's FMCG segment includes a wide range of consumer products such as cigarettes, branded packaged foods, personal care products, education and stationery products, agarbattis (incense sticks), and matches. ITC is a prominent player in the luxury hospitality industry in India. The company owns and operates several high-end hotels and resorts under its "ITC Hotels" brand. ITC is a leading manufacturer of paperboards and specialty papers. It also provides packaging solutions for various industries. ITC's agribusiness division focuses on sourcing, processing, and exporting agricultural commodities like wheat, rice, leaf tobacco, and coffee. In the tobacco industry, ITC is a leading player with a diverse range of cigarette brands catering to different market segments.
Nestle S.A.
Company Headquarters: Vevey, Switzerland Founded: 1866 Workforce: ~ 275,000 Company Working: Nestle produces and sells food products and beverages. It sells infant foods, bottled water, cereals, chocolates, candy, coffee, kitchenware, chilled and frozen foods, dairy, ice cream and accessories for animals. The business also offers direct-to-consumer meal delivery services, medical foods, sausages, and nutritional products. The company also offers Aero, Alpo, Milkybar, Nestle Ice Cream, Cerelac, Nescafe, Nespresso, Nestea, Milo, Maggi, Buitoni, Cailler, Movenpick, Freshly, Purina, Boost, Gerber, and Kit Kat. Furthermore, the company operates in North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa, and the Middle East.
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Instant Noodles Market