Call for more action on cutting salt consumption despite downward trend

Updated

Adults in England are being encouraged to check food labels for salt content after new research revealed that people are still eating far too much.

Despite decreases in sodium intake, adults are still eating a third more salt than the recommended daily amount.

New figures from Public Health England (PHE) show that in 2014 adults in England were consuming an average of eight grams of salt every day - experts say that adults should eat no more than six grams each day.

However, overall salt intake has fallen by 11% since 2005/06, the figures show.

PHE urged people to check food labels and use lower salt options.

It also said that more needs to be done to reduce high salt levels in food from restaurants, cafes and takeaways.

"Our analysis makes clear that there is a steady downward trend in salt consumption," said Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at PHE.

"While people are having less salt than 10 years ago, we are still eating a third more than we should.

"The majority of the salt we eat is in everyday foods so it's important to check labels and choose lower salt options.

"Many manufacturers and retailers have significantly reduced the salt levels in everyday foods. However, more needs to be done, especially by restaurants, cafes and takeaways."

Consuming too much salt can raise the blood pressure which increases a person's risk of heart disease and stroke.

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