§ Mr. George OsborneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the Government's policy with regard to the health(a) risks and (b) benefits of salt consumption. [18860]
§ Ms BlearsSalt is the main source of sodium in the diet. Scientific evidence suggests that sodium is one of the important determinants of blood pressure which is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. National surveys 615W show that the average intake of salt in the United Kingdom is more than twice the amount that is needed on health grounds. 75 per cent. of salt in the diet is obtained from processed foods.
Our policy is to seek reductions in the salt content of processed foods where it is present beyond technical, safety and palatability needs. Our commitment to working with industry to reduce the salt content of the diet was outlined in "Our Healthier Nation" (1999) and the "NHS Plan" (2000). The Department of Health, jointly with the Food Standards Agency, is in discussions with industry about reducing the salt content of these foods.