Context: World Health Organization (WHO) has recently published the ‘Global Report on Sodium Intake Reduction,’ which sheds light on the progress of its 194 member states towards reducing population sodium intake by 30% by 2025. Excessive sodium intake contributes to the rise of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Major Highlights
- The WHO devised a sodium score, ranging from 1 (least implementation) to 4 (highest implementation), for each member state based on factors such as the extent of implementation of sodium reduction and other related measures.
- India has got a score of 2 which signifies the presence of at least one voluntary policy, emphasising the need for more rigorous efforts to address this health concern.
- An average Indian’s sodium consumption is more than double the physiological need and dramatically exceeds WHO’s recommended daily intake of <5 g of salt for adults.
Government Initiatives
India has enacted voluntary measures to decrease sodium in the food supply and promote healthier food choices.
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has implemented the ‘Eat Right India’ movement, which strives to transform the nation’s food system to ensure secure, healthy, and sustainable nutrition for all citizens.
- FSSAI launched a social media campaign called ‘Aaj Se Thoda Kam.’ However, the average Indian’s sodium intake remains alarmingly high (approximately 11 grams).
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