A recent article in Food & Drink Europe discusses the controversial success of salt reduction targets in the UK. We just want more people to be using seaweed for salt replacement!
The UK’s food industry was recently pleased with the success reported from voluntary salt reduction after a government survey shows average salt intake has fallen.
According to the survey, the average salt intake fell by 0.9g between 2005 (8.8g) and 2014 (8.0g) for British adults. This means an 11% decrease.
Although the downward trend is welcomed, this still puts the levels well above the 6g maximum recommended salt intake per day.
However, the the figures were questioned by public health campaigners, Consensus Action on Salt (CASH). There seems to be some confusion as to whether the averge intake in 2011 was 8.5g or 8.1g, based on methodology, and CASH say it is unclear how Public Health England did their calculations.
All agree though that there is much more to be done, and any downward trend is welcomed.
The primary issues remain with salt included in manufactured foods, and also in food service (restuarants, cafes and take aways).
So, what are the options to achieve salt reduction and replacement?
Seaweed for salt replacement
Seaweed has been well researched, and applied commercially, as a natural safe salt replacement option.
In a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, sauces, meats, soups and more, seaweed for salt replacement has been used with great success.
Our own Hebridean Ascophyllum Seaweed is used widely. It contains natural glutamates that can enhance flavours in product, thus requiring less or no added salt. This is in addition to the incredible health and nutrition benefits of using a high quality seaweed, produced to distinct and world-class food grade seaweed standards.
Large and small companies can benefit from the highest standards of production, with full traceability, and the only DNA Authenticated Seaweed on the market – meaning that an independent UKAS accredited lab confirms analyically that you are getting what you expect.
For more information on seaweed for salt replacement get in touch, and see some recipes here.