Kraft Dinner is expanding beyond mac 'n' cheese with the launch of KD Ramen, a new dry-style ramen lineup available exclusively in Canada starting July. The three varieties—Cheesy Ramen, Extra Cheesy, and Extra Spicy—are inspired by customer-created mashups of ramen noodles with KD's cheese powder, a trend that has gained traction online.
Free Samples and Nationwide Rollout
From June 25 to June 27, KD partnered with 7-Eleven Canada to offer free samples of all three varieties at select locations in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Winnipeg, from 9 p.m. to midnight, while supplies last. The promotion taps into the rise of late-night convenience store snack runs. Starting in July, KD Ramen will be available in the ramen aisle at grocery, convenience, and big-box retailers across the country.
Product Details and Inspiration
The Cheesy Ramen variety blends KD's signature cheesiness with savory ramen flavor, umami, and subtle spice. Extra Cheesy caters to mac 'n' cheese fans who prefer no spice, while Extra Spicy offers heat balanced by KD's creaminess. According to a spokesperson for Kraft Heinz Canada, the product was inspired by the cheesy ramen combinations people have been making and sharing online. The ramen uses the same real Canadian cheddar as the original boxed mac 'n' cheese.
Consumer Reactions and Trends
News of the launch sparked varied reactions online, from excitement—"Dreams really do come true"—to skepticism and calls for royalties from those who have long hacked instant noodles with KD powder. Kraft Heinz Canada noted that ramen, especially cheesy ramen, is one of Canada's fastest-growing food obsessions. Kelly Fleming, chief marketing officer for Kraft Heinz Canada, stated, "With KD Ramen, we're bringing that iconic KD cheesiness to an entirely new aisle and occasion. It's a bold new way for Canadians to experience the flavor they know and love."
