The instant noodles found in prisons and corrections facilities differ a little from what you find going to the local grocery store. Given the response to the ones I’ve tried, I figured I’d put them all into a single post. I know there are more – for example a regular chicken flavor variety. Also, I know that Maruchan isn’t the only brand that packages them this way. I’ll go into the specifics of what makes them a little different and why.
Differences
As you can see, all the packaging is clear. This makes it harder for contraband to be passed around in the packs. Another thing to note are the flavors; many are different from what you’ll find at the grocery store. It is a contentious debate as to if the flavors in prisons taste different as well. Officially, I’ve been told that Cajun Chicken is the same as Picante Chicken, Cajun Shrimp is Picante Beef, Texas Beef Picante Beef. But people swear they’re different.
I should also mention that these varieties are distributed by a company called Keefe Group. I’ve contacted them in the past about an interview and samples, but they’re not interested. I’ve asked to purchase directly – they’re not interested in that as well. When asked ‘so where can I get these’ the straight and direct answer was ‘in a corrections facility.’ That being said, don’t bug them. Where did I get mine? Anonymous folks who work in the industry have contacted me from time to time asking if I’d like a few samples, of which I am truly appreciative.
Maruchan Varieties
Texas Beef
This seems to be the more popular one. A kind of spicy beef variant. Original review
Hot-n-Spicy Vegetable 40% Lower Sodium
This one is lower sodium and it’s also a variety with no counterpart in your local grocery store. Rather bland. Original review
Hot-n-Spicy Vegetable
There is also a non-lower sodium version. Less bland. Original review
Cajun Chicken
As you can guess, it’s a spicy chicken. Original review
Cajun Shrimp
Spicy shrimp flavor. Original review
Chili
Of all these, this is definitely the spiciest of the bunch. Original review
Other Varieties
There are more that are similarly packaged. I’ve seen some from Nissin’s Top Ramen range in clear packs – a Garden Vegetable if memory serves. I’m sure there are others. Donations are welcome!
Things Made From Prison Ramen
This a prison style instant ramen burrito I made a while back. You crush ramen, corn chips and corn puffs, add hot water and wrap tightly. Eventually, the mixture solidifies to a degree and there you have it. You can watch me make one here.
In Conclusion
So, is it worth committing a crime to go and try all of these? In a word, no. You’re not missing anything.
