How Instant Noodle Soup Contributes to Childhood Scald Burns  

Every year, thousands of children–particularly those from lower-income families–suffer severe scald burns due to these seemingly harmless food products, with most incidents occurring during the preparation or consumption stages.

In this article, we’ll explore the causes behind this alarming trend, its disproportionate impact on specific communities, and what steps can be taken to protect our children from these avoidable injuries.  

The Scalding Statistics: A Growing Concern  

Instant noodle soup burns are alarmingly common, with a significant portion of scald burns in children attributed to these products. When microwaved, the water can reach temperatures of up to 180 degrees, creating a high risk of severe burns if the container is accidentally knocked over.

According to the AAP, microwavable instant noodle soups cause approximately 20% of all pediatric scald burns that require emergency room treatment.

These numbers are not just statistics—they represent:

• Children who suffer severe, sometimes life-altering injuries;
• Victims of burns who are between the ages of four and twelve;
• A group that may either accidentally knock over the container or mishandle it during preparation;
• Younger children who are more likely to be harmed by pulling down noodle containers from tables or counter tops; or,
• Older children who often experience burns when preparing or consuming the noodles.  

This is especially true for burns caused by noodles, as the sticky noodles cling to the skin, intensifying the burn and making treatment more complex. 

Beyond the immediate physical harm, these burns can lead to:

• Extended hospital stays;
• Numerous surgeries;
• Long-term complications; and,
• Limited mobility in affected joints with severe scarring.

Instant noodle soups may seem like a harmless convenience, but the danger they pose to children is significant.

Older children may take on responsibilities like preparing meals for younger siblings, which raises the risk of accidents. Thus, a product marketed for convenience unintentionally creates more danger for those already vulnerable to injury.  

The Real Dangers Behind Instant Noodles: Poor Product Design

One key reason instant noodles pose such a significant burn hazard is the defective design of their packaging. Most instant noodle soups come in Styrofoam cups or containers with a low base-to-height ratio, making them unstable and easy to tip over. 

Protecting Children from a Hidden Hazard  

Manufacturers have yet to respond to calls to redesign their packaging. For nearly two decades, experts have urged companies to make these simple changes, yet the safety of their youngest consumers continues to be compromised. 

We believe child victims of instant noodle soup cup burns and their families should receive justice and potential compensation, beginning with a free, private case review with an experienced legal team.