11.29.2007 7:55 AM

FDA Mulls a Low-Sodium Mandate

75% of Salt Intake Comes from Processed and Fast Foods

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FDA holds hearings to see if they should regulate sodium, one culprit frozen meals. TV dinner

Photo: Kelly Cline / Istock

By Dan Shapley

With 75% of the average American's sodium intake coming from processed foods and restaurant meals, the Food and Drug Administration is considering a crackdown that would limit the allowable salt content of processed foods, according to the Los Angeles Times.

In a hearing today, the FDA will hear from medical experts who will explain how sodium increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. The FDA will consider whether to regulate salt as a food additive, which would allow it to set limits on its use.

Of course, there is a simple solution for people concerned about sodium intake: Avoid processed foods. In the grocery stores, that means many canned soups, microwave meals and some cereals (read the label - don't go by the apparent saltiness of the taste). In restaurants, that means avoiding many fast food joints and restaurants that rely on processed ingredients.

For the many consumers turning to local farm-fresh produce, this type of regulation isn't an issue. For the millions of Americans who haven't made that decision, it could be a life saver.

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