AM Welcomes Evidence

CARL SARGEANT AM GIVES CAUTIOUS WELCOME TO SALT INTAKE REPORT

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the publication of new evidence today by the Food Standards Agency, which shows the UK’s average daily salt consumption has fallen from 9.5g to 8.6g since 2000. However, although the recent figures show an encouraging decline in salt levels, Mr Sargeant is warning that more work is needed to meet the Government's target of 6g a day. Mr Sargeant said: “It is certainly encouraging news that the message that we need to be reducing our salt intake seems to be hitting home. “Eating too much salt is a significant risk factor in developing high blood pressure, which can triple the risk of heart disease and stroke. Reducing our daily intake of salt to 6g could prevent 20,200 premature deaths a year in the UK.“There has to be a three-pronged attack on high levels of salt in the diet. The Food Standards Agency reports that whilst some food manufacturers are making substantial progress in reducing salt, there is still scope to do more. Further, with the average person eating one in six meals out of the home every week, there is certainly a role for the catering industry in helping us reduce salt intake. Finally, and most importantly, there has to be greater education and involvement from individuals in making the right low-salt choices.”