I had no idea about this until recently, but it turns out ramen noodles—those quick, convenient, and budget-friendly meals so many of us have relied on—may come with a hidden health concern most people overlook. Ramen has been a go-to comfort food for college students, busy professionals, and anyone in need of a fast and inexpensive meal.

While it’s widely known that ramen is high in sodium and low in essential nutrients, there’s another ingredient found in many brands that could pose even greater health risks if consumed frequently over time. That ingredient is a preservative known as tertiary butylhydroquinone, or TBHQ. Most of us don’t think twice about preservatives in packaged foods, assuming they’re harmless. But TBHQ, though approved by the FDA in limited amounts, has raised eyebrows among health experts because of the potential health effects linked to long-term or high-level exposure.

TBHQ is a synthetic antioxidant, which sounds like a good thing until you understand its purpose. It’s not the kind of antioxidant that’s beneficial like the ones found in berries or leafy greens. Instead, TBHQ is used to prevent oxidation in processed foods, specifically to preserve fats and oils so the food doesn’t go rancid. This allows products like ramen noodles to have a much longer shelf life. In the food industry, TBHQ is considered highly effective, especially in items that sit in warehouses or store shelves for extended periods. Ramen noodles are often fried in oil before packaging, and the seasoning packets also contain ingredients that benefit from preservation, which is why TBHQ is commonly added to these products.

While small amounts of TBHQ are considered safe for human consumption, repeated exposure from eating various processed foods containing it could potentially accumulate in the body. This is where concern starts to build. Studies conducted on animals have shown that high doses of TBHQ may be linked to serious health issues such as liver enlargement, neurotoxic effects, convulsions, and even DNA damage. While these studies involved doses higher than what an average person would typically consume in a single meal, the risk increases when someone’s diet includes processed foods regularly over time.

Beyond organ-related concerns, TBHQ has also been mentioned in discussions about behavioral changes, especially in children. Some research has suggested that synthetic additives, including TBHQ, might contribute to hyperactivity or attention issues in sensitive individuals. Although more studies are needed to establish a direct connection, it’s enough for many parents to keep an eye on ingredient labels. And if that’s not enough, there are reports of rare allergic reactions to TBHQ, including symptoms like skin irritation, headaches, or breathing difficulties in some people. So, what can you do about it? The first step is simply being informed. Reading food labels and knowing what ingredients are in your favorite products is a great start. TBHQ is often listed in the fine print, so it might take an extra second to spot. If you eat ramen often, consider switching to brands that use air-dried noodles or natural preservatives, which are becoming more widely available as consumer demand grows for cleaner ingredients. Additionally, reducing your overall intake of ultra-processed foods can make a big difference. Cooking meals at home, even simple ones, using whole ingredients gives you full control over what goes into your body. You don’t have to give up ramen entirely, but moderation and smart choices can go a long way toward supporting long-term health. In conclusion, while ramen noodles offer unbeatable convenience and affordability, they may also come with hidden risks if consumed frequently—especially because of TBHQ, a preservative designed to make food last longer but with questionable effects on health when consumed in large quantities over time. Being aware of what you’re eating and making small changes where possible can help you enjoy your favorite foods while also protecting your well-being. Understanding the ingredients in your food, even something as common as ramen, is one of the best ways to take control of your health.