But no, you’re not supposed to microwave polystyrene unless it comes with a microwave-safe label. Polystyrene is a popular food container because it’s light, cheap to make, and works well as an insulator to keep food warm. However, when heated, research shows substances within the polystyrene can leach into your food. The main cause for concern is styrene, which may impact the nervous system and is a possible carcinogen. Instant noodles come in all shapes and packaging — some of which are microwavable. Others aren’t. : Getty
Having said that, if you have previously microwaved Cup Noodles, you shouldn’t necessarily panic. More research is required to determine whether there is a connection between food containers and styrene, as the majority of studies on the topic concentrate on those who work with the material. While heating Cup Noodles in the microwave for a short while won’t likely harm you much, doing so repeatedly over time may have unknown consequences, so it’s best to avoid doing so going forward.
But Nissin notes that the updated packaging is in large part, a “key step in our environmental commitment.” On top of being microwavable, the cup will now be made with 40 percent recycled fiber, no longer include plastic wraps, and have a 100 percent recycled paper sleeve. Polystyrene isn’t easily recycled, and local governments have taken measures to ban the material in recent years.
Nissin revealed last week that it will be redesigning the classic Cup Noodles in early 2024. Instead of polystyrene, it’ll be made out of paper. Nissin also announces that its Cup Noodles can now be microwaved because of the updated packaging. That is, you weren’t meant to be heating up Cup Noodles in a microwave.
To be fair, this particular variety of cup noodle and Nissin, the original instant noodle brand, may be the source of some of the confusion. There’s a veritable cornucopia of instant noodle brands and containers. Some are microwavable and have been for a long time. It all depends on the instructions on the label.
