SALT in our diets must be reduced, the Government finally admitted this month after years of campaigning by health groups.
The Food Standards Agency and the Department of Health have agreed to recommend a 50 per cent reduction in salt intake, from ten to 12 grams a day
to just six grams.
These recommendations were originally made by CASH - Consensus Action on Salt and Health - ten years ago, but were rejected by the Government.
The food industry is reluctant to reduce salt in processed foods as it makes cheap, bland food edible and helps keep costs down.
However, 80 per cent of people's salt intake comes from salt 'hidden' in processed, canteen, fast and restaurant food, so it is vital to tackle salt levels in pre-prepared food.
The target is to reduce salt levels in processed foods by 50 per cent over the next 10 years.
It is thought up to 35,000 deaths a year could be prevented.
May 31, 2003 08:00
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article