Report Shows American Consumers are Confused About How to Best Reduce Sodium Intake


“These statistics show the confusion that Americans are facing when it comes to reducing sodium in their diet,” says Emily Krol, health and wellness analyst at Mintel. “The majority of sodium that people consume comes from packaged foods and restaurant fare, not what they’re preparing at home. Packaged food manufacturers and restaurants would be wise to increase the flavor of low-sodium foods using herbs or spices to combat the confusion and show customers that low sodium does not equal bad taste.”

When trying to add flavor without salty additions, the majority of home cooks look to spices and aromatics as well, the reports states: Some 83% of people who are cutting back on sodium in their diet chose to cook with herbs like rosemary, chives and cilantro while 82% spice their meals up with different aromatics and seasonings like curry, pepper and garlic. Another 82% have used spices like basil and nutmeg to help limit their sodium intake and 77% have opted for infused oils.


