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New survey reveals instant noodles that are saltier than 12 packets of crisps

A quick snack of instant noodles can contain up to 5.8g of salt, that’s even more than 12 packets of crisps, according to a new survey released this May. But you can look after your blood pressure by choosing supermarkets’ own label noodles, which can contain up to 10 times less salt. 

 

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What did the survey involve?

Consensus Action on Salt & Health (CASH) looked at 131 instant noodles products. They found that while you need to add water, you shouldn’t want to add any salt, as some contain dangerously high levels already. Surprisingly, many products contain large amounts of hidden sugar as well.

Six products contained 5g of salt or more, and Ko-Lee Instant Noodles Chicken Flavour contained 5.8g – that’s 97% of the 6g maximum recommended amount of salt you should have per day, and more than 12 packets of salted crisps. 

CASH is now urging food manufacturers of flavoured instant noodles to immediately reduce both the salt and sugar content of their products to prevent unnecessary strokes and heart disease.

Which products were highest in salt? 

  • Ko-Lee instant Noodles Chicken Flavour – 5.8g
  • Nissin Demae Ramen Chicken Flavour – 5.5g
  • Ko-Lee Instant Noodles Mixed Vegetable – 5.1g
  • Mama Pho Ga Rice Noodles With Artificial Chicken Flavour – 5.0
  • Nissin Demae Ramen Sesame Flavour – 5.0

Which products were lowest in salt? 

  • Morrisons BBQ Beef Flavour Noodles – 0.40g
  • Morrisons Chicken Flavour Noodles – 0.40g
  • Morrisons Mild Curry Flavour Noodles – 0.5g
  • Tesco Instant Noodles Chow Mein Flavour – 0.6g
  • Morrisons Bacon Flavour Noodles – 0.6g

How can I choose healthy instant noodles?

Compare nutrition labels on food packaging when out shopping. Look out for the green front of pack label or use the FoodSwitch app to help you swap to a healthier choice.

Try making your own instant noodles by using plain noodles and adding vegetables, fish or meat. Use black pepper instead of salt and add herbs and spices.

Where can I find out more? 

Read the full press release from CASH