Instant Noodles Market is expected to reach US$ 87.13 Billion by 2031

Increasing Need for Convenience Bolster Instant Noodles Market Growth

According to our latest study on "Instant Noodles Market Size and Forecast (2021–2031), Global and Regional Growth Opportunity Analysis – by product type, packaging type, source, and distribution channel," the market value is expected to grow from US$ 58.14 billion in 2024 to US$ 87.13 billion by 2031; it is estimated to register a CAGR of 6.0% during 2025–2031. The instant noodles market report highlights key factors driving the instant noodles market growth and prominent players along with their developments in the market.

The consumption of high-quality convenience food has become one of the main trends in the food industry. Convenience food, such as ready-to-eat (RTE) and ready-to-cook (RTC) products, saves consumers' time and effort associated with ingredient shopping, meal preparation, cooking, consumption, and post-meal activities. As per the Food and Health Survey of the International Food Information Council (IFIC), convenience is a significant factor of consideration for millennials while purchasing food. Instant noodles are processed and involve preservation technology, which significantly extends product shelf life. The efforts and time saved on food preparation and its convenience of storage and transport boost the demand for instant noodles. A few categories of instant noodles can be eaten immediately or after adding water, heating, or thawing. Most instant noodles can be made in 2–5 minutes.

Instant Noodles Market Breakdown – By Region

Convenience foods such as instant noodles are gaining popularity attributed to the increasing number of smaller households and dual-income families worldwide. Due to their hectic work schedules, the millennial population prefers to avoid tedious tasks. Asia Pacific holds a significant share in the instant noodles market. China/Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, and Nigeria are the major consumer markets of instant noodles in the region. The meat and spicy flavors of instant noodles appeal to consumers. Hot and sour, curry laksa, spicy kimchi, and black pepper crab-flavored instant noodles have gained popularity, contributing to the growth of the instant noodles market in China.

The growing prevalence of celiac disease and rising cases of people suffering from wheat allergies are driving the demand for gluten-free products. Rising awareness about gluten-related disorders and dietary sensitivities plays a significant role in boosting the demand for gluten-free food products. Celiac disease can often damage the intestine lining and become a major cause of thyroid and Type 1 diabetes in a few patients. A gluten-free diet can help reduce the adverse effects of the celiac disease. As a result, governments worldwide have implemented several regulations related to gluten-free products. For instance, in Brazil, federal Law 10,674 was published that determines that all industrialized foods must indicate "Não Contém Glúten" (Does Not Contain Gluten) or "Contém Glúten" (Contains Gluten) on their packaging and labels. The warning needs to be visibly printed on labels and packaging. The law is specifically implemented to prevent issues associated with celiac disease.

The instant noodles market analysis has been performed by considering the following segments: product type, packaging type, source, and distribution channel. Based on product type, the market is segmented into plain/vegetable, chicken, seafood, and others. The plain/vegetable segment is expected to register a significant CAGR from 2025 to 2031. Based on packaging type, the market is bifurcated into packet and cup/bowl. The packet segment is anticipated to hold a significant instant noodles market share during the forecast period. Based on source, the market is segmented into wheat, rice, and others. The rice segment is expected to register a significant CAGR during 2025–2031. Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail, and others. The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment is anticipated to hold a significant share of the instant noodles market in the coming years.

Plain/Vegetable noodles are a staple in the instant noodles market, catering to consumers seeking lighter and healthier options. They include vegetable seasonings and natural flavors. Plain and vegetable-based seasonings allow consumers to customize their preferences, making them an appealing choice for conscious consumers. The range includes vegetable-based soups, plain noodles with vegetable garnishes, and vegan-friendly seasonings. Plain/vegetable instant noodles are widely popular in regions with a strong focus on veganism. With the growing demand for plant-based products, this category is expected to experience significant growth in the future, driven by consumers seeking convenient, healthy, and sustainable meal solutions.

In terms of revenue, Asia Pacific dominated the instant noodles market share in 2024. China is a major market for instant noodles in the Asia Pacific. According to the World Instant Noodles Association, China was the largest consumer of instant noodles globally in 2023. The country's consumption along with Hong Kong, was 42,210 million servings in 2023. Instant noodle flavor in China is made of beef soup and Chinese five-spice powder, including cellophane, vermicelli, and flour noodles. Consumers in the country prefer large-sized cup noodles, known as tub noodles. Pork and beef are among the most popular flavors of instant noodles consumed across China. Several manufacturers are expanding their instant noodle product portfolio to cater to this growing demand in the country. For instance, in October 2024, VRB Consumer Products expanded its instant noodle product portfolio by launching cup noodles with a unique fusion of Pan-Asian and Indian flavors. Thus, product launches and increased consumption propels the demand for instant noodles in the country.

The instant noodles market trends include the growing preference for gluten-free instant noodles. Various consumers prefer a gluten-free lifestyle to keep themselves healthy. This has surged the country's popularity and acceptance of gluten-free dietary patterns in recent years. With the rising popularity and health awareness, many manufacturers expanded their portfolio by launching instant noodles in gluten-free format. For instance, in October 2021, Abokichi Inc, an instant noodles manufacturer, launched ABO Ramen, a gluten-free instant noodles containing dry noodles. Thus, the preference for gluten-free products is expected to bring new trends to the instant noodles market during the forecast period.

The instant noodles market forecast can help stakeholders plan their growth strategies. Nissin Foods Holdings Co Ltd, Unilever Plc, Nestle SA, Nongshim Co Ltd, Ajinomoto Co Inc, Maruchan Inc, Samyang Food Co Ltd, Konjac Massas MF, ITC Ltd, and Campbell's Co are among the prominent players profiled in the instant noodles market report. These market players are focusing on providing high-quality products to fulfill customer demand. They are adopting strategies such as product launches, capacity expansions, partnerships, and collaborations to stay competitive in the market. For instance, in January 2024, Nissin Foods Company Limited entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with the Vendor to acquire a 100% equity interest in Gaemi Food, a top manufacturer of crispy roll snacks in South Korea.

The instant noodles market is segmented on the basis of product type, packaging type, source, distribution channel, and geography. Based on product type, the market is segmented into plain/vegetable, chicken, seafood, and others. Based on packaging type, the market is bifurcated into packet and cup/bowl. Based on source, the market is segmented into wheat, rice, and others. Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail, and others. By geography, the instant noodles market is broadly segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America. The market in North America is further subsegmented into the US, Canada, and Mexico. The market in Europe is subsegmented into Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, and the Rest of Europe. The market in Asia Pacific is further subsegmented into China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and the Rest of Asia Pacific. The instant noodles market in the Middle East & Africa is subsegmented into South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the Rest of the Middle East & Africa. The market in South & Central America is further segmented into Brazil, Argentina, and the Rest of South & Central America.

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