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Monday January 28th 2008
Research shows kids' food still full of salt
Archived article dated Monday January 28th 2008
Lack of clear labelling confusing to parents
New research published today by Consensus Action on Salt and Health (CASH) shows that many foods eaten by UK children still contain large amounts of salt, in some cases more than half the daily maximum limit for a 6 year old in a single serving. According to the UK Government's Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition, four to six year-olds should eat no more than 3g of salt a day, half the adult limit. One to three year-olds should have no more than 2g a day.Commenting on the research, Betty McBride, Director of Policy and Communications for the British Heart Foundation, said: “This must be a red light moment for food manufacturers, let's get colour coded labels on food packs now. “We know that high salt intake is linked to raised blood pressure and is a major risk factor for heart disease - the UK's biggest killer. “This research shows alarming levels of salt hidden in some foods. Shoppers' problems are compounded by confusing food labelling that can make it difficult to quickly choose lower salt options for their families at the supermarket.“We know that traffic light labelling is key to making food choices easier for shoppers. It would allow busy parents to tell at a glance whether food they select is low, medium or high in salt and help them make healthier food choices.”
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Tagged as: cash | salt | food labelling
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