Cup noodles have quietly vanished from store shelves at Guangzhou East Railway Station, sparking discussion among travelers.
Photos posted online showed the station's convenience stores stocking various types of dry noodle products instead of the usual cup noodles.
Authorities suggested the change relates to strong food odors in enclosed train compartments.
China's railway regulations encourage passengers to avoid consuming pungent foods like durian or instant noodles to maintain air quality onboard.
When contacted, station staff confirmed the removal of instant noodles from shops but declined to specify whether the policy was directly linked to odor concerns.
Multiple convenience store employees at the station verified they had stopped selling instant noodles following new requirements.
Similar changes were observed at Guangzhou Baiyun Railway Station, while the major Guangzhou South Railway Station has never carried instant noodles in its stores due to its high-speed rail operations.
Railway officials clarified that while instant noodles are no longer sold in stations serving bullet trains, passengers remain free to bring their own.
The policy aligns with national railway service standards, classifying instant noodles as potentially disruptive to onboard cleanliness.
Travelers needing instant noodles can still purchase them from shops outside the station premises.
