Lowering Sodium on the Sly

Q: I have heard that some food companies are lowering the sodium contained in their products but not promoting it on the package labels. Why?

A: Some companies are reducing sodium content to help consumers meet the government’s recommended daily sodium limit of 2,300 milligrams. If that limit were achieved, rates of high blood pressure in America would be much lower. But since many people think low-sodium foods are bland and tasteless, some companies aren’t promoting the lower sodium levels. And until they do, it’s up to you to check labels and compare brands.

Stephanie Karpinske, M.S., R.D., writes about weight loss, nutrition, and health issues. As an editor of many diet and health books, her mission is to help others live healthier lives.