Shop-bought soups contain on average more ‘hidden’ salt per serving than some ready meals, according to a report by Consensus Action on Salt and Health (Cash). A survey of 576 varieties found that almost half (48%) had more than the recommended 0.6g of salt per 100g. The average salt content per soup serving was 1.6g - more than some ready meals, according to Cash. This ‘hidden' ingredient in soups is important because people are often unaware how much they are eating, Cash warned. The campaign group said having bread alongside soup increased the meal's salt content. Many manufacturers have hit the Food Standards Agency's recommended levels of salt in soups after reformulating their products, Cash said. But 22% of products surveyed had more than 2g of salt per serving - one third of an adult's daily recommended intake.

Julian Hunt, director of communications at the Food and Drink Federation which represents UK manufacturers, said, “The food industry has done a fantastic job in reducing the levels of salt in soup - something Cash does recognise. In fact since 2003, manufacturers have achieved a 25% reduction in soups, and industry is committed to working with the Food Standards Agency towards its 2010 target. Additionally, a large number of manufacturers are now putting Guideline Daily Amounts (GDA) information on the front of packs which clearly shows people the amount of salt in that product. GDA labels now feature on the front of over 15,000 product lines, amounting to 50% of UK retail food and drink packs.”

NamNews - Thursday 10th May 2007

 

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