# Eel-Flavored Instant Noodles Nissin Mystery Unagi Instant Noodles Have Plant-Based Eel By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2024-07-11 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nissin-mystery-unagi References: [soranews24](https://soranews24.com/2024/07/11/cup-noodle-maker-now-offering-instant-mystery-eel-meals/) & [nissin](https://www.nissin.com/jp/news/12617)  The [Nissin Mystery Unagi](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nissin-raoh-fugudashijio) instant noodles are the brand's latest addition to its long line of delicious instant meal options that's perfect for curious foodies alike to try out. The [instant cup noodles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cup-noodles-protein) product is crafted with ramen noodles along with a [plant-based unagi substitute](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/plantbased-tonkotsu-ramen) that will provide the taste and texture of eel with no meat in the mix. The product, however, isn't vegan as it's paired with a fish stock in the mix that will increase the umami flavor upon being paired with hot water. The Nissin Mystery Unagi instant noodles are priced at 369 yen (~$2.30) and are making their way to locations in Japan starting July 15, 2024 to coincide with Doyo no H (midsummer Day of the Ox). Image Credit: Nissin ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.5/10 - Popularity: 63% | Activity: 48% | Freshness: 25% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Plant-based Seafood Alternatives:** Plant-based alternatives to seafood products are capturing consumer interest by offering familiar flavors with a reduced environmental impact. - **Umami-enriched Instant Meals:** Umami-enhanced instant meal products are gaining traction as consumers seek convenient yet flavorful dining experiences. - **Cultural Fusion Flavors:** Blending traditional flavors with innovative ingredients is appealing to culinary explorers looking for unique yet authentic taste experiences. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Plant-based Food Industry:** Expanding plant-based food options to include more seafood-like alternatives could cater to a growing demographic seeking sustainable choices. - **Instant Noodle Market:** The instant noodle market is ripe for innovation with new, flavor-packed variations that appeal to global palates. - **Specialty Food Retail:** Specialty food retailers can benefit from carrying unique, culturally inspired products that attract adventurous eaters. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Upscale Seafood Instant Noodles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nissin-raoh-fugudashijio.md) - [Meat-Focused Noodle Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nissin-1.md) - [Pork Broth Seafood Ramens](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cup-noodle-creamy-tonkotsu-seafood.md) - [Fused-Flavor Instant Noodles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/seapoodle.md) - [Cell-Cultured Unagi Eels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/forsea-foods.md) - [Flavor-Packed Ramen Noodle Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/naked-ultimate-ramen.md) - [Animal-Free Ramen Noodles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ramen-z.md) - [Plant-Powered Umami Noodles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/high-protein-instant-ramen.md) - [Pea-Based Ramen Noodles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zenb-ramen.md)