Top 10 Companies in the Global Instant Noodles Market

Nestle S.A., Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd., Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Unilever Plc, ITC Limited, Capital Foods Pvt. Ltd, Acecook Vietnam, PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk, Uni-President Enterprises Corporation, Campbell Soup Company, NONGSHIM CO., LTD., Mamee-Double Decker Sdn. Bhd., Kohlico Brands UK Ltd, AICO Foods Limited, and Samyang Foods Co., Ltd, among others, are the major players in the global instant noodles market.

The global instant noodles market reached a value of about USD 57.76 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around USD 95.94 by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the increased demand for food products with ease of preparation, longer shelf life, and availability in various flavours.

Instant noodles, a popular quick meal option, consist of pre-cooked and dried noodle blocks accompanied by flavouring powder and seasoning oil. They are designed for easy preparation by boiling water, soaking, or microwaving, offering convenience and versatility. With a longer shelf life and a variety of flavours, they cater to diverse tastes and are favoured by chefs and home cooks alike. Invented in 1958 by the founder of Nissin Food Products Co., Ltd. Japan, instant noodles have become a global snack phenomenon, produced in over 80 countries.

The growing popularity of snacking globally, coupled with the demand for convenient, long-lasting food options available in a range of flavours, is driving the rise in revenue for the instant noodles market.

Amidst increasing health awareness, consumers are now opting for instant noodles with reduced salt content, minimal preservatives, and no artificial additives. To meet this demand, manufacturers are incorporating natural ingredients like yeast extracts, which not only enhance spiciness but also impart a savoury and creamy flavour profile, catering to evolving consumer preferences.

In December 2023, Japan’s Ishimaru launched veg dry noodles in India. Tapping into India’s fast-expanding market for instant noodles, Japan’s top noodle manufacturer Ishimaru introduced its first ‘made in Japan for India’ vegetarian dry noodles range in the country. The two popular dried noodle varieties initially launched Udon noodles and Ramen noodles were manufactured in Japan exclusively for the Indian market and were made of Japanese wheat. The two products went on sale in India on December 1, 2023, on Amazon India, and were also launched at a food exhibition, Upper Crust Show in Mumbai, between December 1 and 3.

Top 10 Instant Noodles Companies in the World:

Nestle S.A.

Nestle, the world's largest food and beverage company, is dedicated to unlocking the power of food to improve the quality of life for everyone. With a history dating back to 1866, Nestle serves with passion and excellence, providing products and services for all life stages. Rooted in values of respect, diversity, and a commitment to the future, Nestle's global presence spans almost every country. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, the company reported sales of CHF 84.3 billion in 2020, offering a comprehensive portfolio across various food and beverage categories.

Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd.

Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd. manufactures instant noodle and processed food products, with additional involvement in pharmaceutical development. Its global footprint includes production facilities in Hong Kong, India, the U.S., Singapore, and other nations. Founded by Momofuku Ando in 1958, the company introduced the world's first instant noodles. The iconic Cup Noodles® emerged from Ando's observation of Americans consuming noodles from cups in 1966. Nissin's presence in the U.S. solidified with the establishment of its Gardena, CA, plant in 1970, which produced the pioneering Top Ramen® in 1972, marking the company's significant role in instant noodle history.

Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

The Ajinomoto Group, a global leader in food and amino acids, harnesses cutting-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies to promote healthy living worldwide, guided by its corporate mantra "Eat Well, Live Well." With a presence in 36 countries and regions, the company recorded sales of 1.1493 trillion yen in fiscal 2021. Established 114 years ago, the group pioneers umami taste exploration. Its diverse workforce, spanning 7,814 in Japan, 13,998 in Asia, 3,420 in Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and 9,383 in North and South America, drives business development rooted in local cultures.

Unilever Plc

Unilever Plc, a British multinational, emerged from the 1929 merger of Lever Brothers and Margarine Unie. With over a century of history, it stands as one of the world's foremost consumer goods companies, renowned for ethical business practices driving superior performance. Employing 127,000 individuals globally, Unilever operates in 190+ countries, serving 3.4 billion people daily. Its diverse portfolio includes renowned brands like Lipton, Dove, and Ben & Jerry's, as well as innovative newcomers such as The Dollar Shave Club, catering to various consumer needs worldwide, yielding a turnover of €59.6 billion in 2023, with 58% derived from emerging markets.

ITC Limited

ITC, a leading Indian conglomerate, operates across FMCG, Hotels, Packaging, Agri-Business, and IT sectors, boasting a Gross Revenue of INR 69,481 crores and Net Profit of INR 18,753.31 crores as of 31.03.2023. Recognised as India's most admired company by Fortune India, ITC sets itself apart with its commitment to sustainability, being carbon, water, and solid waste recycling positive. Its diverse portfolio includes acclaimed brands like Aashirvaad, Sunfeast, and Bingo!, driving market leadership and creating sustainable livelihoods for over 6 million people.

Capital Foods Pvt. Ltd

Capital Foods aims to revolutionise dining experiences with its innovative approach, blending consumer insights with product development and marketing strategies. Through its brands Ching's Secret and Smith & Jones, the company caters to diverse culinary needs, offering a wide range of globally-inspired packaged food products. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and stringent quality control measures, Capital Foods ensures hygienically produced, high-quality food items. Committed to global food culture, the company continues to expand its portfolio through strategic partnerships and invites individuals passionate about food to contribute to its innovative journey.

Acecook Vietnam

Established in 1993 and inaugurated in 1995, Acecook Vietnam Joint Stock Company has emerged as a prominent food manufacturer in Vietnam. Specialising in high-quality instant processed products, the company has garnered trust from both domestic and international consumers. Acecook Vietnam has consistently received accolades and awards, cementing its reputation as a leading producer of instant food in the country. With its commitment to quality and innovation, Acecook Vietnam continues to excel in the food industry, earning recognition from government agencies, media, and consumers alike.

PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk

Indofood, recognised as a Total Food Solutions company, operates across all facets of food manufacturing, from raw material production to consumer product distribution. With a resilient business model bolstered by four Strategic Business Groups, Indofood is a leading player in each business category it operates in. Its Consumer Branded Products division boasts some of Indonesia's strongest packaged food brands, while Bogasari focuses on wheat flour and pasta production. Additionally, Indofood's Agribusiness segment encompasses various activities, including oil palm cultivation, while its Distribution arm boasts an extensive network across Indonesia.

Uni-President Enterprises Corporation

Uni-President China Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of Uni-President Enterprises Corporation, dominates the Chinese market as the second largest tea and instant noodle producer and the largest milk tea ready-to-drink supplier. Its parent company, Uni-President Enterprises Corporation, is a leading food conglomerate based in Taiwan with significant market share across Asia. Uni-President Enterprises Corp. offers a diverse range of food products globally, including feeds, flour, dairy, and beverages. With operations in Taiwan, China, and Southeast Asia, it maintains a strong presence through its extensive network of affiliates and convenient stores.

Campbell Soup Company

Established in 1869, Campbell Soup Company is a leading brand entity with two core divisions: Meals & Beverages and Snacks. Demonstrating purpose-driven operations, the company is deeply integrated into society, emphasising its commitment to community welfare and environmental stewardship. With a rich history of innovation and iconic brands, Campbell Soup Company prioritises people and values, fostering a culture of inclusivity and excellence. Today, with over 14.5 thousand employees in North America, the company continues its legacy of providing beloved food products to households across the continent.