### FDA's Proposal on Salt Substitutes in Staple Foods On March 28, 2023, the FDA announced its intention to allow salt substitutes in staple foods like cheese, milk, and bread. This move aims to provide more flexibility for food manufacturers to reduce sodium content in their products. Currently, the FDA does not permit salt substitutes in what it calls “standardized foods,” which include 140 everyday items like frozen peas, canned vegetables, milk chocolate, and ketchup. ### Why This Matters High salt intake is linked to various health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. According to the CDC, most people consume too much salt through packaged foods or meals prepared at restaurants. The FDA’s proposal is part of a broader plan to combat diet-related diseases by reducing sodium intake. ### What Are Salt Substitutes? Salt substitutes are defined by the FDA as “safe and suitable ingredients used to replace some or all of the added sodium chloride” in foods. These substitutes should serve the same functions as salt without compromising food safety or quality. Although the FDA has not specified which salt substitutes will be allowed, potassium chloride is a common example. ### Benefits and Risks Salt substitutes can be beneficial for some people because potassium is an essential mineral that helps lower blood pressure. However, they can be dangerous for individuals with conditions like kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, or diabetes. Both sodium and potassium are crucial electrolytes that help maintain healthy fluid and blood levels in the body. An imbalance, such as too little potassium or too much sodium, can increase blood pressure. ### Recommendations The FDA has previously asked the food industry to voluntarily reduce sodium levels in packaged and restaurant-prepared foods. This new proposal aims to help the industry meet that request. The CDC recommends reading food nutrition labels to manage your intake of sodium and potassium effectively.