WHO launches new guidelines on lower-sodium salt substitutes.

This guideline provides evidence-informed guidance on the use of lower-sodium salt substitutes (LSSS).

The guideline is intended for a wide audience involved in the development, design and implementation of policies and programmes in nutrition and public health. The recommendation in this guideline can be used by policy-makers, programme managers, health professionals and other stakeholders in their efforts to promote reduction of sodium intake and reduce the risk of hypertension and related NCDs through a range of public health policy actions and intervention programmes.

The recommendation in this guideline should be used in conjunction with other WHO guidance on healthy diets – in particular, guidelines relating to sodium and potassium.

High sodium intake causes 1.9 million deaths annually, with global intake level at 4.3 g/day in 2019, more than double the recommended level, requiring urgent action.

WHO recommends limiting sodium intake to under 2g per day to lower blood pressure & reduce cardiovascular risks.

Potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate & calcium chloride-based substitutes are available globally under brands like LoSalt, Nu-Salt, Morton Lite Salt & Pansalt.

Lower-sodium salt substitutes help lower sodium intake while maintaining flavor.

The guidelines highlight safety concerns with LSSS, particularly for people with kidney problems due to high potassium levels.