Authorities in Mexico ordered a recall of a Buldak, or “fire chicken,” ramen product for misleading customers with its label, despite having “no trace of chicken” in it.
The Office of the Federal Prosecutor for the Consumer announced the recall decision Monday there, concerning Buldak Ramen Cheese and 11 other instant noodle products from across nine manufacturers.
It targets a total of 129,937 packets distributed on shelves throughout the country.
Included were three products from South Korean food makers: Buldak Ramen Cheese from Samyang Foods, Ottogi Ramen chicken flavor from Ottogi and Nongshim’s Instant Noodle Soup Pasta.
Mexican officials explained that Samyang Foods’ Buldak product misled customers by labeling the product as “hot chicken flavor ramen.” The packaging claimed to use chicken meat, but only artificial chicken flavors and chicken-flavored powders are used, they said.
“It’s deceptive marketing. There is no trace of chicken (in the product). It’s less chicken than kissing one,” an official from the consumer protection agency was quoted as saying by local media.
Ottogi’s product had an image of carrots on the package, although it did not have carrots in it. Nongshim’s cup noodles had insufficient nutritional information, officials said.
In response to the announcement, Ottogi said it will “modify the design of the packaging very soon,” while emphasizing the problematic images were peppers, not carrots.
Samyang Foods explained that it used a synthetic chicken-flavored additive to make the product “meat-free,” adding it has plans to “relaunch the product with a new package design” in Mexico.
In addition, a number of Japanese ramen products, two instant noodle products from Germany’s Knorr and one from US-based Kraft, were subject to recalls.
Large retail chains, namely Walmart, have cleared away the problematic products off shelves in Mexico after the announcement. Retailers are considering resuming sales once the packages are replaced, according to the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency.
FAQs
In 2021, authorities in Mexico ordered a recall of Buldak noodles for misleading customers with its label, as the product did not contain chicken despite being labeled as "hot chicken flavor ramen."
Is buldak recalled? ›
Food authorities in Denmark recalled three types of Buldak Samyang spicy noodle products. They say the ramen contains an overly high dose of capsaicin, an active ingredient in chili peppers, which they claim is a health hazard.
What is the bad ingredient in instant noodles? ›
Though instant ramen noodles provide iron, B vitamins and manganese, they lack fiber, protein and other crucial vitamins and minerals. Additionally, their MSG, TBHQ and high sodium contents may negatively affect health, such as by increasing your risk of heart disease, stomach cancer and metabolic syndrome.
Why did Mexico ban Maruchan ramen? ›
Although in the operation carried out on Friday the product Maruchan Ramen, which has minimal amounts of vegetables, was not found, the product is involved in misleading advertising, so it will be immobilized in future operations.
Are Buldak noodles harmful? ›
Danish Authorities Recall Samyang's Korean Spicy Noodles
The specific flavors include Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken, and Hot Chicken Stew. These noodles are known for their fiery heat, but recent reports suggest that they may pose a serious risk to consumers' health.
What country is Buldak from? ›
Is there real chicken in Buldak Ramen? ›
The traditional version of buldak noodles typically contains chicken as one of the main ingredients, making it non-vegetarian. However, there are variations and instant versions of buldak noodles available in the market that cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Is expired Buldak ramen safe? ›
Some people have reported stomach aches from eating ramen after its expiration date, but most people say that the biggest impact is in the flavor of the noodles. While you may be able to eat packaged ramen several months after the expiration date without issue, we don't recommend it.
Is Buldak Korean or Japanese? ›
Story of Buldak: How a very spicy Korean noodle landed in a soup in Denmark | Food-wine News - The Indian Express.
What is the most unhealthy part of instant ramen? ›
Ramen is not inherently unhealthy, but the flavor packet provided in instant ramen does contain high amounts of sodium. Diets high in sodium are associated with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, a leading cause of stroke and heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
You will retain more water when you eat them.
After eating Instant Noodles you will not only feel bloated, but also lethargic. This is because of the water your body retains after you eat them. You can also gain temporary weight.
Should I avoid instant noodles? ›
High Sodium Content: Instant noodles are typically high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Low in Nutrients: They are often low in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber, especially compared to fresh foods.
What do Mexicans call ramen? ›
Instant ramen is a hot meal that fills stomachs, typically for less than 40 cents a serving. The product doesn't need refrigeration and it's so easy to make that some here call it “sopa para flojos,” or “lazy people's soup.”
What countries banned ramen noodles? ›
Denmark's food safety agency has nixed three varieties of instant ramen. Their capsaicin content could be harmful to kids, the agency said.
Why is ramen so popular in Mexico? ›
Instant Ramen Makes Inroads in Mexico
So it was that Nissin came up with the world's first instant ramen in a cup: Cup Noodle. The product was an immediate success, as it was cheap, easy to carry, and required minimal preparation. All one needed was hot water—or, failing that, plain water and a microwave oven.
Do they sell ramen noodles in Mexico? ›
After having been in ramen business for several years, and making ramen noodles by hand from scratch, YAMASAN RAMEN has reached a point in its history where further development and growth were impossible due to the sheer volume of noodles it served to customers at its various locations across Mexico.
Can Muslims eat Buldak noodles? ›
Is Buldak Ramen halal? Some Buldak Ramen flavors like Original, Cheese, 2x Spicy, Carbonara flavors are halal certified, while others are not. Look for halal logos/certifications from reputable organizations like KMF or MUI on the packaging if this is important to you.
Why is Buldak Ramen so addicting? ›
A: Many people find the unique flavor combination of Buldak noodles addictive. The intense spiciness mixed with the savory sauce can create a craving for more.
