You can freely build on How Cup Noodles Are Designed to Cook Perfectly
This patent expired in 1996. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Nissin Shokuhin KK
Patent granted
1976
Expired
1996
Forward citations
22
What this patent covers
This patent details a method for creating a 'noodle lump' that fits perfectly inside a tapered, heat-insulating cup. By frying the noodles in a specific mold, the process creates a lump that is denser at the top and less dense at the bottom. When placed in the cup, the lump is suspended so it does not touch the bottom, allowing hot water to pool underneath and heat the noodles from below. The dense top layer acts as a lid to trap steam, which helps the noodles cook thoroughly in just a few minutes.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 3997676 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover instant noodles sold in plastic bags or bricks that are not pre-shaped for a specific cup.
Does not cover noodle cooking methods that rely on microwave energy rather than hot water immersion.
Does not cover non-fried noodle dehydration processes like air-drying or freeze-drying.
Does not cover cups that are not heat-insulating or do not utilize a tapered, friction-fit design.
Who is building on this today
Nissin Foods remains the primary developer of this technology, having scaled the process globally. Many private-label manufacturers and competitors like Maruchan have adopted similar cup-based dehydration and packaging geometries to compete in the instant meal market.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Nissin Cup Noodles
Most standard instant noodle cups found in grocery stores
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Nissin Shokuhin KK. US Patent 3997676. Instant-cooking cupped noodles and a method of producing the same. Granted 1976, expired 1996. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.