NEW DELHI: India has emerged as the world’s third-largest consumer of instant noodles, overtaking traditional noodle-eating nations such as Japan and Vietnam, according to the latest data from the World Instant Noodles Association (WINA). The country consumed 9.60 billion servings in 2025.
Instant noodles have become a staple of the modern, fast-paced lifestyle and are popular across age groups. In India, demand is strong for flavours tailored to local palates, including masala, curry, chicken tikka and vegetable.
Top seven markets
China and Hong Kong top the list with 43.27 billion servings, where beef and seafood soup flavours are popular. Indonesia follows with 14.54 billion servings, driven by demand for fried noodles and halal products.
India ranks third with 9.60 billion servings, followed by Vietnam at 7.46 billion, where spicy prawn and pho rice noodles are favoured. Japan is fifth with 5.95 billion servings, led by ramen, udon and health-focused products.
The United States is sixth with 5.23 billion servings, with microwaveable cup noodles and chicken flavour in demand, while the Philippines is seventh with 4.34 billion servings, favouring citrus and seafood flavours.
Rising popularity
Affordable pricing, attractive advertising and ease of preparation have contributed to the growing popularity of instant noodles as a quick snack.
Health advisory
Nutrition experts, however, advise that instant noodles be eaten only occasionally and not as a regular meal. To counter their high salt and fat content, they recommend pairing them with fresh vegetables and protein sources such as eggs or paneer.