BOILING POINT: Can You Eat Instant Noodles on High-Speed Trains? 12306 Responds

CNBC AI News, July 20th – A debate is brewing once again in China regarding the culinary etiquette aboard high-speed trains: is instant noodles permissible? The question has ignited a social media frenzy, topping trending topics charts.

Some rail passengers have posted images of notices within train carriages requesting that travelers refrain from consuming strongly scented foods, specifically mentioning durian and instant noodles.

The online reaction has been explosive, with netizens passionately debating the issue from all angles.

One side argues that high-speed rail meal options are often overpriced and unpalatable, with set meals costing upwards of 45 yuan. Instant noodles offer a convenient and affordable alternative, and passengers should have the right to choose.

The counter-argument emphasizes the shared nature of the train carriage environment. Critics contend that strong odors can be disruptive and inconsiderate, and that passengers should be mindful of their fellow travelers.

Official information from the 12306 website highlights that train carriages are enclosed spaces.

To ensure a pleasant travel experience and maintain fresh air quality, passengers are requested to avoid consuming foods with strong odors, such as durian and instant noodles.

The site also advises against consuming self-heating meals like “self-heating hot pot” or rice, to prevent excessive steam and potential scalding incidents.

However, a 12306 customer service representative from Shanghai clarified the official position: “We have no specific requirements and no regulations prohibiting passengers from eating instant noodles onboard. If passengers wish to consume them, there are no additional restrictions.”

The representative further explained that passengers are welcome to bring their own food or purchase meals offered on the train. Whether or not instant noodles are available for purchase is dependent on the specific train service.