PHILIPPINES – Global leaders from the instant noodle industry reasserted their commitment to enhancing nutrition, sustainability, food safety, and social responsibility, during the 11th World Instant Noodles Association (WINA) Summit in Manila, Philippines.
The Summit spotlighted how instant noodles, deeply embedded in diverse cultural traditions, can evolve to be a part of a positive change in global nutrition and sustainability practices.
Founded in 1997, the World Instant Noodles Association (WINA) serves as the global authority for the instant noodle industry. Representing manufacturers across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, WINA promotes excellence in industry standards while advocating for sustainable and innovative practices in instant noodle production worldwide.
In his opening address, WINA Chairman Koki Ando emphasized that every instant noodle manufacturer must tackle these significant challenges. He noted that achieving these goals requires careful planning and determination.
Hosted by Monde Nissin Corporation, the Manila summit was the first in-person convention since 2018.
Henry Soesanto, WINA Director General and President and CEO of Monde Nissin, stated that the theme of the summit, “World United by Noodles,” reflects the leaders’ dedication to four focus areas: food safety, nutrition, sustainability, and social responsibility, which are vital for the industry’s future.
Kunihiko Hirabayashi, Secretary-General of the ASEAN-Japan Centre, pointed out the shifting global consumer preferences towards healthier diets, suggesting that the instant noodle industry has a unique opportunity to reformulate its products to be more nutritious.
To tap this growing market, industry leaders were urged to embrace innovation and inclusivity in the pursuit of wellness.
The keynote speech highlighted the growing connection between health-conscious food production and long-term business sustainability, placing WINA members at the forefront of a more responsible and future-oriented food industry.
As part of the summit, Dr. Mitsuru Tanaka, Head of the WINA Food Security and Safety division, officially introduced the WINA Challenge Target, a framework guiding the industry’s commitments across four key areas The initiative sets ambitious goals, such as reducing salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats in instant noodle products while enhancing their nutritional value.
During the summit, industry leaders stressed that these changes reflect the increasing consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable food options while preserving the convenience and cultural significance that have made instant noodles a global staple.
According to WINA data, over 120 billion servings are consumed worldwide each year, which means that the industry’s commitments could have a profound impact on consumer health and environmental conservation.
To further advance the WINA Challenge Target, the WINA Board of Governors, representing some of the leading instant noodle manufacturers globally, signed the Manila Declaration. This declaration formalizes the industry’s approach to fulfilling its responsibilities to consumers and the planet.
The WINA governors pledged to take concrete actions aimed at improving product nutrition, maintaining high food safety standards, reducing environmental impact, and addressing urgent social issues.
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