Nissin Foods USA announced that Cup Noodles will introduce a microwavable paper cup design in early 2024, replacing the current polystyrene cup introduced in 1973.
The newly designed, updated paper cup will be manufactured at Nissin Foods‘ Lancaster plant and rolled out across all flavors of Cup Noodles starting early next year.
Also, the cup will be made with 40% recycled fiber, no longer require a plastic wrap, and features a sleeve made with 100% recycled paper. The new packaging is polystyrene-free, removing the use of this plastic from the company portfolio.
As Cup Noodles will be microwavable now, it will no longer require boiling water, significantly reducing cooking time. The new packaging is easily heated in 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
“Since its invention more than 50 years ago, Cup Noodles has become a cultural mainstay and a staple in households around the world,” Michael Price, president and CEO of Nissin Foods USA, said in a release. “And while Cup Noodles will continue to have that same satisfying taste and iconic look, we continue to find ways to evolve the brand to support the current needs of our consumers, the environment and the world. This updated packaging and the new paper cup marks an important milestone for Cup Noodles and a key step in our environmental commitment.”
Paula Wolf is a freelance writer