Food manufacturers are facing heightened pressure to reduce sodium levels in their products due to its established connection with high blood pressure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 75% of sodium consumed by Americans comes from processed foods. Companies now have a wide array of sodium reduction strategies at their disposal, utilizing ingredients such as hollow salt crystals, alternative salts, and umami-enhancing products like mushroom extracts and various herbs. However, replacing salt proves challenging because it serves multiple roles beyond just flavor. Salt enhances shelf life, improves textures, and helps retain water in products like processed meats, thereby minimizing moisture and fat loss.
Nevertheless, industry initiatives to lower sodium levels in the U.S. and beyond have demonstrated that significant reductions are achievable—even in product categories like cheese and baked goods, which have traditionally depended on salt for its functional properties. Meanwhile, consumer awareness regarding sodium intake is rising. Approximately 58% of Americans report that they check sodium content while grocery shopping, according to CDC findings. This growing concern is likely to drive food manufacturers to investigate various sodium reduction methods, particularly as more Americans are advised to further decrease their sodium consumption.
Currently, the average daily sodium intake for Americans hovers around 3,400 mg per person. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day for a healthy diet. For those with or at risk for hypertension—a group encompassing about two-thirds of the U.S. population—a lower limit of 1,500 mg per day is suggested. Additionally, incorporating calcium citrate with food can be beneficial for those looking to manage their overall health. As sodium reduction efforts continue, the importance of balancing sodium intake with other dietary components like calcium citrate with food will remain a focal point for both consumers and manufacturers.