Understanding Your Instant Noodles: Does ramen Express have MSG?

October 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 200 million servings of instant noodles are consumed daily worldwide, making their nutritional content a frequent topic of discussion. For those watching their intake, a critical question often arises: Does ramen Express have MSG? This article will provide the answer while also exploring how to make instant ramen a more nutritious part of your diet.

Quick Summary

This article clarifies the presence of monosodium glutamate in Ramen Express, discussing how the product is formulated without added MSG. It provides context on MSG's role in food and outlines how to enhance the nutritional profile of instant noodles through ingredient choices, focusing on increasing protein and vegetables while managing sodium content.

Key Points

No Added MSG: Ramen Express officially states its products have no added MSG, though they contain flavor enhancers with naturally occurring glutamates like yeast extract.
High Sodium Concern: The primary health concern with most instant ramen, including some versions of Ramen Express, is high sodium content, which can be managed by using less of the seasoning packet.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Traditional instant ramen lacks sufficient fiber, protein, and many essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet.
Diet-Friendly Enhancements: To make instant ramen healthier, supplement with lean proteins (egg, tofu, chicken) and fresh vegetables (spinach, carrots, mushrooms).
Choose Non-Fried Noodles: Opting for air-dried instant noodles over flash-fried varieties can reduce the fat and calorie content.
MSG Safety Consensus: Regulatory bodies generally recognize MSG as safe, and research has found no conclusive evidence linking it to severe health issues in the majority of people.

Does Ramen Express Have MSG? An Ingredient Deep Dive

For many health-conscious consumers, understanding the ingredients in processed foods is a top priority. When it comes to instant ramen, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a common concern. So, does ramen Express have MSG? The short answer, according to the manufacturer, is no, not in the traditional sense. The company states that its products are made with "no added MSG". The official website and product descriptions emphasize a commitment to being 100% plant-based and free from added MSG and TBHQ, a controversial preservative. However, some ingredients, such as yeast extract and hydrolyzed soy and corn protein, contain naturally occurring glutamates. The human body processes these naturally occurring glutamates in the same way it processes MSG, but their presence allows for a savory flavor boost without listing the specific additive E621.

What is MSG and Why is it Controversial?

MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid that is a basic building block of protein. It is a food additive used to enhance the savory umami flavor in foods. Glutamate is naturally present in many foods, including tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. The controversy around MSG stems from anecdotal reports of adverse reactions, sometimes referred to as "Chinese restaurant syndrome," which include headaches, flushing, and weakness. However, major health organizations, including the FDA, have classified MSG as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) for consumption. Research, including a 2000 review in the Journal of Nutrition, found no conclusive evidence linking MSG to severe systemic illness in most people. It is important to remember that individuals with sensitivities may still experience reactions, and that high amounts of sodium from any source can impact health.

Making Instant Ramen Work for Your Diet

While Ramen Express and similar brands offer a quick meal option, a basic packet of instant noodles alone is not a nutritionally complete meal. Most instant ramen is low in fiber and protein, but very high in sodium. By adding fresh, whole ingredients, you can transform a simple instant ramen packet into a more balanced and nourishing meal. This not only improves the nutritional profile but also increases satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.

How to Improve Instant Ramen's Nutrition

Add protein: Eggs are a classic ramen topping, providing an excellent source of protein. Other great options include tofu, edamame, shredded chicken, or lean pork. A high-protein meal is more satisfying and helps support muscle mass.
Include fresh vegetables: This is one of the easiest ways to boost fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Try adding chopped carrots, spinach, bok choy, mushrooms, or scallions. You can add them raw or give them a quick sauté before adding to your bowl.
Make your own broth: Many brands' flavor packets are loaded with sodium. Consider using half the packet or making your own lower-sodium broth using a combination of miso paste, spices like garlic and ginger, and a no-salt-added vegetable or chicken stock.
Choose non-fried noodles: For a lower-fat option, look for instant noodles that are air-dried rather than flash-fried in palm oil during processing. This can significantly reduce the saturated fat content of the meal.
Use low-sodium flavorings: Instead of relying solely on the seasoning packet, enhance the flavor with low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, chili oil, or a dash of vinegar.

Comparison: Standard Instant Ramen vs. Upgraded, Healthier Ramen


Feature	Standard Instant Ramen	Healthier, Upgraded Ramen
Preparation	Boil noodles, mix in high-sodium flavor packet.	Use non-fried noodles, create a low-sodium broth base.
Sodium	Very high (up to 88% of RDI).	Significantly reduced by using less of the packet or a homemade broth.
Fat	High, especially if flash-fried.	Lower, by using air-dried noodles and omitting fatty ingredients.
Protein	Low (around 5 grams).	Higher, with the addition of eggs, tofu, or lean meat.
Fiber	Low (around 1 gram).	Higher, with the inclusion of various fresh vegetables.
Vitamins & Minerals	Limited (fortified with some B vitamins and iron).	Richer, with the addition of fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients.
Cost	Very inexpensive per serving.	Slightly higher due to the cost of fresh ingredients, but can still be budget-friendly.

Nutrition Diet and Instant Noodles

Eating instant ramen occasionally is not a health risk for most people. The key for a balanced diet is moderation and supplementation. A diet based solely on instant noodles can lead to poor nutritional intake and is associated with health risks such as metabolic syndrome, increased risk of heart disease, and poor overall diet quality. When consumed as an occasional part of a diverse diet and upgraded with nutritious additions, instant ramen can be a satisfying and quick meal. This approach prevents it from becoming a source of nutritional deficiency while still allowing for the convenience it offers. Remember, no single food makes or breaks your health, but the overall pattern of your diet is what matters most.

For more detailed information on MSG safety assessments, you can refer to the National Institutes of Health.

Conclusion

In summary, Ramen Express confirms that its products do not contain added MSG. However, like many products, they may contain ingredients with naturally occurring glutamates, which enhance the umami flavor. The broader conversation about instant ramen and diet is more complex. While convenient, the standard package lacks the nutritional completeness needed for regular consumption. By adding fresh vegetables and lean proteins, controlling sodium levels, and choosing healthier noodle options, instant ramen can be part of a balanced diet. Ultimately, mindful eating and ingredient awareness are crucial for making informed dietary choices that support your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

For most people, MSG is safe to consume in moderation. Major health organizations classify it as generally safe, and extensive research has not found a conclusive link to severe health problems, though some individuals may have sensitivities.

Added MSG is a specific food additive (E621), while naturally occurring glutamate is an amino acid found in many foods like cheese and tomatoes. The body processes both types of glutamate in the same way, but only added MSG must be listed by its number or name.

To reduce sodium, you can use only half or less of the flavor packet, or discard it entirely and create your own broth using low-sodium stock, spices, and miso paste.

Adding lean protein like an egg, tofu, or chicken, along with plenty of fresh vegetables such as spinach, bok choy, carrots, or mushrooms, can significantly boost the nutritional value of your meal.

While Ramen Express avoids added MSG and is plant-based, its overall nutritional profile as a standalone meal is similar to other instant noodles. The healthiness depends on how it's prepared and what additions you make.

Yes, instant ramen can be included in a diet. The key is moderation and supplementation. By adding protein and vegetables and limiting the high-sodium broth, you can create a more balanced and filling meal that fits into a healthy eating plan.

No, not all instant noodles are fried. Some healthier alternatives, like non-fried Korean ramyun or air-dried organic ramen noodles, are available and offer a lower-fat option.