FACTS: Learn Things About Noodles You Never Knew

Noodles are an incredibly popular food to eat all over the world, and with good reason! They are amazingly diverse in what they can be eaten with, and there are cast varieties of noodles to suit all tastes too!

With the popularity of the noodle in mind, we thought we would put together a host of facts that noodle lovers can enjoy and share with friends.

Who did it first?

Both the Chinese and the Italians claim to have invented the noodle, but it is, in fact, China who is believed to be the country of origin of noodles. They were first made in 2000 BC, out of a cereal grain called millet.

It is the Japanese who are responsible for the invention of the easy to cook and inexpensive variety of noodles called instant ramen noodles that are so prevalent today. Following on from the Second World War, the country endured a massive financial crisis, and it was this invention of the ramen noodle on a mass-produced scale that helped to feed thousands of hungry mouths in the country. This easy and cost-effective manner of feeding the people literally saved thousands of lives!

How are noodles made?

Noodles are made by either hand pulling or using machine cutting methods. They are then dried, which helps to increase shelf life. It’s also possible to store them fresh in the refrigerator, for up to three days.

Customs of the noodle

There are several customs attached with eating noodles in Japan, slurping loudly while eating your noodles is not considered a bad manner in the country. Rather, it signifies appreciation for your host that the meal being served is actually delicious.

Who eats the most noodles?

Noodles get eaten A LOT! It may come as a surprise, but the annual consumption of noodles in Australia is a substantial 18million kilograms. This works out to almost one kilogram for each person in Australia.

You are what you eat!

Noodles are considered healthy as they’re low in both sodium and fat. They provide a high vitamin and mineral rate, with iron, riboflavin, niacin and thiamine all present in noodles. If it’s energy you need, reach for the noodles; they’re a great source of it.

More than a noodle

Noodles symbolise longevity in Chinese culture. For this reason, they form a fundamental part of birthday celebrations in China, much like candles and cake do.

How the status of the noodle has changed

Instant noodles are widely available as an inexpensive food to purchase in today’s society, but in the past, they were once sold as a luxury item.

Noodles can make you rich (sort of)

Noodles, if you choose to eat them regularly, can provide you with one of the most cost-effective meals you could possibly find. If you were to eat them in all your meals, it would cost, on average, just £108 a year! Combine this with some of our oriental vegetables, and you’re sure to be better off in the tummy and the wallet!