13-Year-Old’s Death Sparks Warning on Raw Instant Noodles
In Egypt, a 13-year-old boy lost his life after eating three packets of raw instant noodles. Within just 30 minutes of consuming the uncooked noodles, he developed severe stomach pain, excessive sweating, and vomiting. Despite efforts to save him, he sadly passed away.
What Really Caused His Death?
Authorities first investigated whether the noodles were expired or contaminated. However, after testing and a medical autopsy, the results showed that the noodles were not spoiled. Instead, doctors confirmed that the boy died from acute intestinal obstruction.
Eating such a large quantity of dry noodles at once caused the food to swell and block his digestive tract, leading to a sudden and fatal complication.
The “Eat Ramen Raw” Challenge and Social Media Risks
Unfortunately, eating raw instant noodles has become popular online, particularly through the “Eat Ramen Raw” challenge on TikTok and other platforms. Millions of young people have watched or tried this trend without realising its risks.
Experts warn that consuming raw noodles can lead to:
- Digestive blockages
- Dehydration
- Severe abdominal discomfort
Although deaths are rare, extreme cases like this one show just how dangerous this habit can be.
Are Instant Noodles Safe When Cooked?
While cooking noodles makes them safer to digest, health experts caution that instant noodles are not a nutritious meal. A single pack can contain up to 1,330 mg of sodium, which is more than half of the World Health Organisation’s daily recommended limit of 2,000 mg.
Eating them too often may increase the risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions including high blood sugar, high triglycerides, and excess fat around the waist)
Moreover, instant noodles are made from refined wheat, meaning they lack dietary fiber. Without fiber, digestion slows down and gut health suffers.
Why Experts Are Concerned
Nutrition specialists, including Professor Lauren Ball (University of Queensland) and Dr. Emily Burch (Southern Cross University), emphasise that instant noodles should not be considered a balanced meal. The high salt content, unhealthy additives, and absence of fiber make them harmful if consumed frequently.
This incident serves as a reminder that processed foods, such as chips, sugary snacks, and noodles, can carry health risks if eaten in large amounts or as part of a regular diet.
Conclusion
The tragic death of this young teenager highlights the hidden dangers of eating raw instant noodles and the serious risks behind viral food challenges. While instant noodles may seem convenient and fun, moderation is key.
Parents and teenagers are encouraged to:
- Avoid risky food trends online
- Treat instant noodles as an occasional snack rather than a daily meal
- Focus on balanced, fiber-rich foods for long-term health
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 28 August 2025
- 13:00
