As reported by news.com.au, the well known product, Maggi noodles is becoming healthy.
Two minute noodles were first invented in Japan by Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin foods, as an answer to something cheap, quick, tasty and high in calories that would keep people full for longer. Instant noodles were an instant hit and gradually became a staple diet for university students and young people in general. In fact, according to a poll conducted by Fuji Research institute in 2000, the Japanese people believed that instant noodles were their best invention of the 20th century.
But as the problem of obesity plagues the world, the company noticed that the consumers were turning away from the product after reading the ingredients and instant noodles were earning a bad reputation. Health experts advise people to stay away from packed, processed and high in salty carb foods and two minute noodles are a perfect example of all three.
The average bowl of noodles can contain more salt than is recommended for a full day and pasta and sauce combinations can often be high in fat and salt. Thickeners and preservatives like MSG are often added to the products including colors and flavors.
Therefore, the company is not changing its formula for both two-minute noodles and recipe based sachets. They have reduced their sodium levels upto 55 per cent, removed preservatives and chemicals and have even added a gluten free range to their products.
Maggi’s in-house nutritionist Vanessa Furlong told news.com.au,
“We’ve tried to focus on ingredients that people know and understand. When you see the ingredient list we want it to be something that you’re likely to find in your own pantry,”
Not only this, they have changed the packaging of their products too to make it more consumer friendly. Phrases like “Simply good for you” and “know what’s inside” are written clearly on the front of the packaging now.
“We’re really amping up our messages around vegetables,” said Ms Furlong, pointing to the packet which says “fill half your plate with vegetables or salad”.
According to the company, their research showed that people were looking for healthier options and so they are changing their product to suit the needs of the consumers.
