Sliced bread is a staple food in many households, often chosen for its convenience and versatility. But a new report has revealed that three in four sliced bread products contain as much salt as a bag of crisps, sparking concerns among health campaigners. With salt intake linked to increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, experts are urging consumers to check labels carefully and reduce their salt consumption. In this article, we explore the findings of the report and the potential impact on public health.
Campaigners for better health have warned that three out of four pre-packaged loaves of sliced bread sold in UK supermarkets contain as much salt in a single slice as a pack of ready-salted crisps. Action on Salt surveyed 242 loaves made by 28 manufacturers and sold at the country’s 10 largest supermarkets. The saltiest loaf identified was Hovis White with Starter Dough, containing 1.48g per 100g of bread. Waitrose Rye and Wheat Dark Sourdough was the least salty, with 0.51g per 100g. Hovis Soft White Extra Thick contains a fifth of the daily recommended maximum salt intake in two slices, according to the campaign group.
The Department of Health and Social Care set a maximum salt target for pre-packaged bread to be achieved by 2024. Whilst the majority of loaves surveyed met the target, Action on Salt explained that the variation in salt levels was excessive and called for more stringent targets. Excessive salt is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. Action on Salt is urging UK prime minister Rishi Sunak to implement mandatory salt reduction targets. In previous research, it was found that bread salt content had dropped by 8% since 2011, but some loaves such as Sainsbury’s Medium Wholemeal, had seen rises of 19%.
In conclusion, the findings of the recent survey conducted by Consensus Action on Salt and Health (CASH) have raised some serious concerns regarding the salt content of sliced bread products available in the market. As the report suggests that approximately three in four sliced bread products are as salty as a bag of crisps, it is of utmost importance to address this issue and take necessary action towards reducing salt intake as excess salt consumption can lead to high blood pressure and a range of health issues. In order to tackle this problem, it is crucial for manufacturers, retailers, and regulatory authorities to work collaboratively towards adopting salt reduction strategies and promoting healthier food options for consumers. Let us all take an active step towards a healthier future by choosing wisely and spreading awareness about the importance of reducing salt consumption.
