<P> Packet noodles such as Batchelors' Super Noodles are also sold . Several of the larger supermarkets sell eastern brands such as Nissin, Koka noodles and Shin Ramyun, which once could only be found in Asian groceries . Larger retail chains may offer their own brand in basic packaging and a variety of flavors, e.g. Asda, while noodles such as Maggi can also be found in many groceries, but are less widespread . Kabuto Noodles, launched in 2010, was the UKs first up - market instant noodle brand followed by Itsu and Mr Lee's Noodles . </P> <P> Unlike in North America, the term ramen is not used in this context; ramen in the UK would generally only refer to the original Japanese cuisine . </P> <P> In the United States, instant noodles were first available by Nissin Foods in 1971 . In 1972, Nissin Foods introduced "Nissin Cup Noodles" in a foam food cup, which led to an upsurge in popularity . Soon after, many other competing companies were offering similar instant noodle products . </P> <P> Today, in the U.S., the instant noodle is commonly known as ramen, after the Japanese dish on which it was originally based, and it comes in a variety of mostly meat - based flavors . The three major brands are Nissin Top Ramen (originally Top Ramen's Oodles of Noodles), Maruchan Ramen, and Sapporo Ichiban . A wide range of popular brands imported from other countries are available at many Asian grocery stores and some supermarkets . Instant ramen noodles are extremely popular among students and other people of low income, due to their ease of preparation and unusually low cost . With Top Ramen brand, Shrimp is pink, Oriental is blue--though now it's called "Soy Sauce ." A new brighter logo helps emphasize the two vegetarian flavors: Soy Sauce and Chili . While price varies throughout the U.S., generally several packages can be purchased for 25 cents or less . </P>

When did ramen noodles become popular in america