The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines recommending people switch to salt substitutes containing less sodium, a move aimed at reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The WHO estimates 1.9 million deaths globally each year can be attributed to eating too much salt.
The main lower-sodium salt substitute is called potassium-enriched salt, which replaces some of the sodium chloride with potassium chloride. This has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and premature death in large trials around the world.
Key benefits of switching to potassium-enriched salt include reducing sodium intake and increasing potassium levels in diets, both of which help lower blood pressure. The WHO recommends a daily potassium intake of 3.5g, but people typically consume significantly less than this.
However, there are challenges to overcome before widespread adoption. These include balancing the benefits and risks, making the product more affordable and accessible, and ensuring it is easily found on store shelves.
The WHO’s recommendation comes after member states committed to reducing population sodium intake by 30% by 2025, but most countries will not meet this goal. The target has been set for 2030 instead. A review published in 2021 found low-sodium salts were marketed in only 47 countries at a premium price.
For the salt substitutes to be successful, stakeholders working with governments and food industries will be essential. With over 80% of salt consumed in Australia coming from processed foods, the WHO guideline falls short by not prioritizing a switch for manufacturers.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/the-world-just-got-new-advice-on-salt-heres-what-you-need-to-know