Can you eat instant noodles every day? Not really – but make it a healthier meal

Instant noodles are cheap, quick and comforting – often a go-to snack or meal for students, busy workers, families and anyone trying to stretch their grocery budget.

In Australia, the instant noodle market continues to grow, as food costs rise and the popularity of Asian cuisines soars.

But what happens if they become an everyday meal? Can you survive, and thrive, on a daily diet of instant noodles?

Let’s explore what’s in an average pack, what that means for our health, and how to make noodles part of a more balanced meal.

Affordable, versatile and culturally important

Instant noodles are incredibly accessible. A single serving is very cheap, can take just a few minutes to prepare and fill you up. They’re easy to store, have a long shelf life, and are available in almost every supermarket or corner shop.

Noodles also carry cultural significance.

For many international students and migrants, they’re a familiar taste in an unfamiliar place. A packet of Maggi mi goreng, a bowl of Shin Ramyun, or a serving of Indomie can instantly transport someone back to a childhood kitchen, a bustling night market, or a late-night supper with friends.

These dishes aren’t just quick meals – they hold memory, identity, and belonging. In a new environment, they offer both a full belly and a sense of home.

But what’s actually in a...

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