The Surprising Origins of Instant Ramen, A Solution to Hunger

Instant ramen was invented by Momofuku Andu to address post-WWII food shortages in Japan. Despite US encouragement to make bread, Andu believed noodles were more culturally appropriate. After a year of experimentation, he discovered flash frying as a preservation method, leading to the creation of instant ramen. This innovation became a massive success, with Andu's company selling billions of units annually, making him a culinary icon. Instant ramen is not just a quick meal but a piece of history.

What was the primary reason Momofuku Andu decided to create instant ramen?

• To compete with Western fast food

• To provide a quick meal for busy students

• To solve a hunger crisis in Japan

• To introduce a new culinary trend

What challenge did Andu face while trying to preserve the noodles?

• Making them gluten-free

• Maintaining their flavor and texture

• Finding a way to make them colorful

• Ensuring they were low in calories

How did Andu finally discover the method to preserve the noodles?

• By baking them at a high temperature

• By boiling them in salt water

• By flash frying them in hot oil

• By freezing them quickly

When did Andu's company start selling billions of instant ramen units annually?

• In the 1990s

• In the 1980s

• In the 1970s

• In the 1960s

What product did Andu introduce after packaged ramen that contributed to his success?

• Frozen noodles

• Cup Noodles

• Microwaveable pasta

• Instant rice