Nutrition Facts — Pot Noodle
* Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet. The nutritional profile is primarily refined carbohydrates with very high salt (about 1.9g salt per pot — roughly 32% of the UK 6g daily maximum, equal to about 0.76g sodium). Low in protein and fibre.
About Pot Noodle
Pot Noodle was launched in the UK in 1979 by Golden Wonder, following the success of instant noodles pioneered in Japan by Nissin (inventor of Cup Noodles in 1971). It was acquired by Unilever in 1995 and has remained in continuous production, with bold advertising campaigns that embraced its working-class, low-brow reputation rather than fighting it. The brand's marketing tagline 'The Slag of all Snacks' was an infamous 2002 campaign that leaned hard into its guilty-pleasure status. Pot Noodle is made in Crumlin, Wales — one of the last major food factories in the South Wales valleys.
Pot Noodle — Popular Flavours
The standard 90g pot is sold in several flavours, including Chicken & Mushroom, Beef & Tomato, Bombay Bad Boy and Sticky Rib. The figures on this page are for Chicken & Mushroom, taken from the manufacturer's per-100g declaration for the dry product. Other flavours are formulated slightly differently, so check the nutrition panel on the individual pot rather than assuming the same values.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly boiled water straight from the kettle — not just hot water from the tap.
- Fill to the line and stir well to distribute the flavour powder evenly.
- Cover with the foil lid for 3 minutes for proper noodle softening.
- Add a soft-boiled egg and sliced spring onion to elevate it beyond its humble origins.
Healthier Alternatives to Pot Noodle
Storage & Shelf Life
Store in a cool, dry place. Shelf life is typically 12 months. Once prepared, consume immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in a Pot Noodle?
A standard 90g Pot Noodle contains about 413 calories. The manufacturer's declaration for Chicken & Mushroom gives 459 kcal per 100g of the dry product, so a 90g pot works out at 413 kcal. Adding water does not add calories, so a prepared pot carries the same energy. Other flavours differ slightly, so check the individual pot's label.
Is Pot Noodle healthy?
Pot Noodle is low in protein, fibre, and vitamins, and extremely high in sodium. It is a convenient emergency meal but not suitable as a regular food for health and wellbeing.
How do you make Pot Noodle better?
Add a soft-boiled egg for protein, frozen vegetables (they cook quickly with the boiling water), a splash of soy sauce, sriracha, and spring onions. It transforms a basic snack into a passable meal.