Instant noodles

Instant noodles

Fast Food

Item Rating: 44/100

1 serving (85 grams) contains 380 calories, 7.0 grams of protein, 14.0 grams of fat, and 54.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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1055.6
calories
19.4
protein
150
carbohydrates
38.9
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.1g)
Calories
1055.6
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 38.9 g 49%
Saturated Fat 19.4 g 96%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 4777.8 mg 207%
Total Carbohydrates 150 g 54%
Dietary Fiber 5.6 g 20%
Sugars 5.6 g
protein 19.4 g 38%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 55.6 mg 4%
Iron 10 mg 55%
Potassium 333.3 mg 7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

58.4%
7.6%
34.1%
Fat: 350 cal (34.1%)
Protein: 77 cal (7.6%)
Carbs: 600 cal (58.4%)

About Instant noodles

Instant noodles are a pre-cooked and dried noodle product, invented in Japan in 1958 and now popular globally as a quick, inexpensive meal. Typically made from refined wheat flour, palm oil, and seasonings, instant noodles are often sold in individual portions with flavor packets. They are high in carbohydrates and sodium but generally low in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Variants exist across cuisines, including Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, featuring diverse flavor profiles. Despite their convenience, instant noodles are considered ultra-processed and are not nutrient-dense.

Health Benefits

  • Quick source of energy due to high carbohydrate content, which provides approximately 35-50 grams of carbohydrates per standard serving.
  • Fortified instant noodles may contain added micronutrients such as iron or vitamin B, potentially addressing deficiencies in some populations.
  • Some versions are enriched with protein through added ingredients like eggs, tofu, or legumes, improving their nutritional profile slightly.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat, soy, gluten, sometimes peanuts or shellfish in flavoring packets
Suitable for: Lacto-ovo vegetarian (if no meat seasonings), flexitarian
Not suitable for: Gluten-free, low-sodium, keto, whole foods diet

Selection and Storage

Store instant noodles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to maintain freshness. Use the product by its expiration date to avoid spoilage.

Common Questions About Instant noodles Nutrition

Are instant noodles high in protein?

Instant noodles are generally low in protein, providing about 4-6 grams per serving (typically one block of noodles or about 85 grams cooked). Their main macronutrient is carbohydrates, and they typically don't make a significant contribution to daily protein needs unless paired with additional protein-rich toppings like eggs or tofu.

Can I eat instant noodles on a keto diet?

Traditional instant noodles are not keto-friendly as they are high in carbohydrates, with one serving containing 40-50 grams of carbs. However, there are low-carb or keto-friendly instant noodle alternatives made from ingredients like shirataki or zucchini available on the market.

Are there any health concerns with eating instant noodles?

Instant noodles are often high in sodium, with one serving providing 850-1,100 mg, which can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed excessively. They may also contain unhealthy fats and lack essential nutrients like vitamins and fiber. Consuming them occasionally as part of a balanced diet is generally fine, but they shouldn't be a regular staple.

What is the recommended portion size for instant noodles?

The standard portion size for instant noodles is usually one block of noodles or about 85 grams cooked. To make a more balanced meal, it’s recommended to add vegetables, protein (e.g., eggs, chicken, or tofu), and limit consumption to one portion to manage sodium and calorie intake.

How do instant noodles compare to other types of noodles?

Compared to fresh or whole grain noodles, instant noodles are lower in nutritional value as they are usually refined and lack fiber. They are also pre-fried in oil, making them higher in fat. Whole grain or brown rice noodles can be a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients, while instant noodles are convenient but often less nutritious.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

  1. Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025: Processed Foods
    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
    Provides guidance on processed food consumption, including instant noodles and their role in a balanced diet.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.