In a potentially unsettling revelation, citric acid has reportedly been found in the ramen bowls served by popular ramen chain, Kairikiya. It is not immediately clear when and how the citric acid, a common food additive, found its way into the ramen. 'Kairikiya' and concerned authorities are yet to declare if the inclusion was accidental or intentional. The presence of citric acid poses no immediate health threat but represents a deviation from the traditional ramen recipe.

In Japan, food and its preparation is an essential aspect of the culture with a strong emphasis on the purity and integrity of traditional recipes. Especially in the case of ramen, which holds a special place in Japanese cuisine, any unwarranted changes can become a significant issue. It also underscores the importance of food safety and strict quality control in the restaurant industry in Japan.

In the US or the EU, it would be handled similarly. Any instance of unexpected or unlabeled ingredients in food items can lead to public concern and regulatory scrutiny. More so if a well-known brand is involved. However, in situations where there is no harm to consumers, the focus is usually on improving controls to prevent such incidents in the future.