The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

UK plant-based nutrition brand Huel has entered the instant noodle category with a new functional ramen line, aiming to ‘disrupt’ a category it says ‘hasn’t innovated in a generation’.

The brand, known for its range of ‘nutritionally complete’ meal solutions, said the instant noodle aisle has long been synonymous with ‘cheap carbs and empty calories’. Its latest innovation aims to bring a better-for-you innovation to the category, delivering the same convenience while boosting nutritional credentials.

Huel Ramen is available in two options – Black Edition and Lite – similarly to the offerings in the brand’s RTD range.

Black Edition is positioned as the high-protein offering, offering 40g of plant-based protein per meal alongside 26 vitamins and minerals, including magnesium and vitamin B12. It is also high in fibre and each product provides around 350 calories per pot.

Four flavours are available in the line: Katsu Curry Noodles, Asian-Style Beef Flavour, Spicy Korean Noodles, and Classic ‘Chicken’ Flavour.

Lite Ramen, meanwhile, contains less calories – under 230 per pot – and offers 25g of plant-based protein. The Lite edition also includes a blend of 26 vitamins and minerals, including biotin and zinc for healthy hair, skin and nails. It is available in Classic ‘Chicken’ Flavour, Sweet Chilli Noodles, Spicy Thai Noodles, and Katsu Curry Noodles.

Both varieties contain iron for cognitive function and to reduce fatigue, as well as vitamins C and D to support immune system function.

The products launched in Tesco stores across the UK from 10 June 2026, and will also be available via Huel’s website in the UK and EU from July.

Nat Stanton, UK sales director for Huel, said: “As of last month Huel hit £100 million RSV in UK retail – for only being in retail for six short years, this is a really exciting milestone. But what excites me more is what comes next.”

“The launch of Huel Ramen into Tesco takes us into convenient meals, which is one of the biggest categories in the UK food, and one that's never had a genuinely nutritious option. That changes with our launch. We’re excited to roll this out to more of our customers over the coming months.”

Established in 2015, Huel was acquired by F&B giant Danone in March this year, a deal reportedly worth €1 billion.