In a major step toward healthier and more sustainable food production, the World Instant Noodles Association (WINA) has officially adopted the “Manila Declaration” at its 11th World Instant Noodles Summit. The new initiative focuses on reducing salt and fat in instant noodles and sets voluntary targets for the industry to address broader global challenges.
The Manila Declaration, introduced by Henry Soesanto, CEO of Monde Nissin Corp. – the summit’s host – outlines the industry’s commitment to driving positive change in four key areas: nutrition and health, environmental sustainability, food safety, and social issues. More than 250 representatives from WINA member companies gathered for the summit to discuss actionable strategies aimed at addressing global health concerns, environmental threats like climate change, and urgent food security challenges.
“We, as a united instant noodles industry, are dedicated to addressing the relevant social issues facing the world,” Soesanto said at the event. “This declaration reflects our commitment to collaboration and measurable actions to improve global health and sustainability.”
The summit, themed “World United by Noodles,” featured a series of forums focusing on nutrition, health, environmental sustainability, and food safety. One of the key discussions centered on global nutritional challenges and how the instant noodle industry can contribute to addressing issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and food crises.
A significant aspect of the summit was the emphasis on reducing salt in noodles to improve public health. Soesanto highlighted that Monde Nissin has already reduced the salt content in its popular Lucky Me brand, going beyond the 10% reduction target set by WINA for 2030. However, he noted the challenge of balancing taste with health, stating that while salt is essential for flavor, gradual reductions are necessary to maintain consumer satisfaction.
Despite these efforts, Soesanto pointed out that the average Filipino consumes only 40 packs of instant noodles per year, a fraction of the daily meal intake. “Why would you blame instant noodles for health issues when consumption is so low?” he questioned, referring to concerns over high blood pressure and other health problems.
The Manila Declaration also includes initiatives to promote social responsibility within the industry, such as the proposed “WINA Day” where member companies would engage in social contribution activities in their respective regions.
As the global noodle industry rallies around these new targets, the Manila Declaration sets a powerful precedent for the role food companies can play in addressing pressing health and environmental challenges while meeting consumer needs.
