GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Instant ramen was a dear friend of mine in college—it got me through many a late night study session. With convenience still high on my list when it comes to recipes, Pearson Foods is answering the call by revitalizing instant ramen with crisp produce. Healthy ramen? Could it be? It certainly seems so, given that the company recently launched its line of Fresh Ramen.

“The project came out of the growing trend for consumers seeking more grab-and-go meal replacement, heat-and-eat options, and also from the consumers’ perspective that they’re looking for more flavorful and unique options for meal replacement as well as ethnic options,” stated Ruta Pearson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

When Japan’s instant noodle soup was introduced to the United States in the 1970s, consumers were hooked. Now, according to a press release, Americans are embracing soba and ramen and want to see these types of meals in grocery stores.

The Fresh Ramen line is a heat-and-eat, three-minute meal solution made with fresh cut Napa cabbage, red cabbage, green onion, and carrot. Each broth and vegetable blend is paired with and complemented by an authentic value-added topping of pickled ginger, seaweed, or mushroom. Fresh Ramen offers five flavors that capture traditional ramen styles: Tonkotsu Pork, Spicy Sesame, Ginger Beef, Miso, and Tokyo Chicken.

Pearson's Fresh Ramen delivers on its commitment to using only fresh ingredients, the company noted. The line is currently available at Meijer and Jewel-Osco locations across the Midwest.

As we plumb the depths of product innovation, keep reading AndNowUKnow for the latest in products, consumer trends, and more.

Pearson Foods