Instant ramen noodles often appear yellow because manufacturers add riboflavin (vitamin B2), a naturally yellow vitamin, to improve the flour’s color and boost nutrition. Nongshim, a major food company, says riboflavin enhances visual appeal and provides nutrients that can be hard to get otherwise. Vitamin B2 deficiency can cause mouth and mucous membrane inflammation, eye problems (like redness or, rarely, corneal issues), and contribute to anemia by affecting iron metabolism. Riboflavin is also found in dairy, eggs, meat, grains, and vegetables. Note: some yellow noodles get their color from alkaline agents such as potassium carbonate or sodium carbonate rather than vitamins — something to be aware of when choosing products.
