Noodles are a key part of Asian cuisine. But when it comes to picking the right type for your shelves, the choice between rice noodles and wheat noodles can make a real difference.

In this article, we’ll break down the main differences between the two, and help you decide which one fits your store, menu, or supply line better.

1. The Basics: What Are Rice and Wheat Noodles?

Rice Noodles

Rice noodles are made from rice flour and water. They are gluten-free and have a soft, smooth texture. Popular in dishes like Pad Thai and Vietnamese Pho, they absorb flavour well and cook quickly.

Explore our Instant Rice Noodles range at JK Foods.

Wheat Noodles

Wheat noodles are made from wheat flour and water. They have more bite, hold sauces better, and come in many forms, such as ramen, egg noodles, or udon.

We stock a variety of Instant Wheat Noodles ideal for quick meals and takeaways.

2. Texture and Taste: What Do Your Customers Prefer?

Rice noodles are light. They work well with mild broths and stir-fries. They don’t overpower other ingredients, making them a great match for spicy sauces or herbal flavours.

Wheat noodles are chewy. They carry stronger sauces well. If your customers enjoy bold dishes like ramen or soy-based stir-fries, wheat noodles are often the better pick.

3. Health and Dietary Needs

Stocking rice noodles supports gluten-free diets. This opens your product line to customers with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Wheat noodles are not gluten-free. But they are high in protein and often enriched with egg or other ingredients, which gives them added value for certain diets.

Want to meet diverse dietary needs? Stock both types and clearly label them.

4. Shelf Life and Storage

Most rice and wheat noodles come dried or instant. They have a long shelf life and don’t need fridge space.

If you’re stocking for bulk buyers or restaurants, both options offer ease of storage. Take a look at our Asian grocery products built for wholesalers and retailers across the UK.

5. Cooking and Preparation

Rice Noodles

Soak or boil briefly

Ideal for fast kitchens and stir-fry stations

Wheat Noodles

Boil for a few minutes

Better suited for soups, saucy dishes

Looking for consistent quality? Browse our range of Instant Noodle Packs trusted by chefs across the UK.

6. Buying for Foodservice vs. Retail

If you're supplying:

Takeaways or foodservice kitchens: Go with both. Rice noodles for lighter dishes, wheat for heartier meals.

Retail shops: Offer variety packs and easy-to-read cooking labels. Make it easy for customers to try new options.

JK Foods supports both retail and foodservice suppliers with fast delivery and consistent stock of Asian ingredients.

Conclusion: Stock Both to Serve Better

There’s no single winner. Rice noodles and wheat noodles each serve a purpose. Stocking both gives you a wider reach — helping you meet dietary needs, menu variety, and customer taste.

FAQs

Are rice noodles better than wheat noodles?

Not better — just different. Rice noodles are lighter and gluten-free. Wheat noodles are chewier and suit rich sauces.

Which noodle type sells better in the UK?

It depends on your buyers. Thai and Vietnamese eateries lean towards rice noodles. Chinese and Japanese places often use wheat noodles.

Are instant noodles a good option for retail?

Yes. Instant noodles, whether rice or wheat-based, are easy to sell due to their long shelf life and quick prep time. You can explore our instant range here.

Need help choosing the right stock for your business?
Explore JK Foods – your trusted partner in Asian food supply across the UK.