USA – Food holdings company, Nissin Foods USA, has announced its plans to launch a new paper cup packaging design for its Cup Noodles product range.
The company considers the redesign to be a “historic change” as it now offers an on-the-go cup that is microwavable, making the brand even more convenient for consumers.
The new cup design also eliminates the need for boiling water, resulting in a significant reduction in cooking time to 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
The redesigned paper cup is made with 40% recycled fiber, no longer requires plastic wrap, and includes a sleeve made with 100% recycled paper.
The packaging is also free of polystyrene, eliminating the use of this type of plastic from the entire company’s portfolio.
“Since its invention more than 50 years ago, Cup Noodles has become a cultural mainstay and a household staple worldwide,” said Michael Price, President and CEO of Nissin Foods USA.
“And while Cup Noodles will continue to deliver the same satisfying taste and maintain its iconic look, we are constantly seeking ways to adapt the brand to meet the current needs of our consumers, the environment, and the world.
“This updated packaging and the new paper cup mark an important milestone for Cup Noodles and represent a significant step in our environmental commitment.”
Cup Noodles’ new paper cup design will be implemented for all flavors starting in early 2024.
This effort to transition to sustainable paper packaging is also aligned with the food holdings’ EARTH FOOD CHALLENGE 2030 target, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 30% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The shift towards paper packaging has also been driven by consumers’ demand for more sustainable products from food companies.
However, environmental advocates have said that changes like Cup Noodles are a good start but insufficient. Waste continues to accumulate in the oceans.
Efforts from companies such as Starbucks and Coca-Cola to reduce plastic waste and eliminate the use of straws have been slow-moving. A major effort from some of the largest food producers to clean and recycle containers has barely made any progress.
