Why did instant noodles become a more prominent part of U.S. fast-food choices in the mid-twentieth century? (final)

Noodles are a staple food that are eaten and accepted from all across the world. From mac and cheese to pho, noodles are accepted in almost every culture, which also makes it hard to pinpoint where it originated from. Although Italy is known for their infinite amounts of pasta, China has had records of noodles from four thousand years ago. According to The National Geographic, a four thousand year old bowl of noodles was found in China and is dated to be the earliest example of noodles ever found. Scientists examined the noodles and determined that they were made of a grain that cultivated in Chines seven thousand years ago. As opposed to European noodles where they’re usually made with wheat. Prior to the bowl of noodles found, the earliest record of noodles also appears in a book written during China’s East Han Dynasty between A.D.25–220.

After the destruction of world war 2, Japan struggled to feed its people. In apologies for the damages done, the United States donated flour to Japan in hopes that making bread would help to pull them out of despair. Japan wasn’t known for their bread, so instead they made noodles. Producing noodles took time to make and prepare, which caused people to line up in the cold for hours just for a bowl of noodles. Momofuku Ando figured that he could solve the hunger problem by creating instant noodles. He believed that “peace will come to the world when all its people have enough to eat” and devoted himself into figuring out a recipe that will preserve and cook noodles instantly. In 1958, Ando perfected his noodles, creating what we know now as instant noodles. After successfully helping Japan feed its entire population, Ando wanted to reach out to other international customers. In 1966 Ando introduced America to instant noodles, under the name “Chiken Ramen.” After realizing that most Americans don’t usually have a bowl for ramen, he reinvented the instant noodles to come with a Styrofoam cup. Ando saw potential for instant noodles in the U.S. market and finally put down his roots in California, starting the production of “Top Ramen” under the Nissin label. This then became the first instant ramen manufactured and sold in America.

Following the introduction of the Nissin brand to America, many other brands became influenced by the idea of instant noodles. In Grocery stores today we have a variety of instant noodles, such as ramen, chow mein, yakisoba, and pad thai. American culture strives on quick, easy, and convenient meals. It wasn’t until post World War 2 that Americans crazed over new innovated food and ways to eat. According to an article from the National Women’s History Museum, “grocery bills went up as women happily purchased more and more convenience foods. Food company marketing materials assured women that their products were both high quality and healthy.” Although convenience foods were getting more recognition, it wasn’t until the late 70’s and 80’s that instant noodles spiked popularity in America.