ADEQUACY OF FOOD LABELING FOR CONSUMERS ON LIMITED SODIUM DIETS

Author:
  • CWC. Jane Wyatt
    C. Jane Wyatt
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Abstract
A survey of consumers on sodium restricted diets was conducted to determine the adequacy of current food labeling for sodium content in processed foods. Individuals were interviewed personally. Results based upon this limited study indicate present food labeling does not adequately inform consumers of the sodium content in processed food even though those surveyed indicated they read labels. The respondents were aware of the importance of potassium in conjunction with low sodium diets. In some cases individuals were aware of sodium content in foods containing high levels of sodium and these foods were not included in their diets, but more generally foods were avoided because of likes, dislike, fat content, etc. Sodium and salt had equal meaning for 66.7% of those surveyed. To some extent they avoided foods with sodium additives in the ingredient statement, if “sodium” was prominent in the name.