WHO Unveils New Lower-Sodium Salt Guidelines
Geneva, Friday, 24 January 2025.
The World Health Organization launches guidelines on January 27, 2025, promoting lower-sodium salt substitutes to enhance public health by reducing global sodium intake, aiming to prevent non-communicable diseases.
Global Health Impact of Sodium Reduction
The initiative addresses a critical public health challenge, as currently 1.9 million deaths annually are attributable to high sodium intake [1]. Global sodium consumption remains at concerning levels, with the mean intake estimated at 4.3 g/day in 2019, more than double the WHO recommendation [1]. The new guidelines specifically target the use of lower-sodium salt substitutes (LSSS), which contain less sodium than regular salt and often include potassium chloride to maintain flavor [1].
Scientific Evidence and Implementation
Recent research strongly supports this initiative, with studies showing that effective sodium reduction strategies could prevent approximately 1.900 million deaths per year [1]. The 2024 European Society of Cardiology guidelines have already aligned with this approach, emphasizing comprehensive strategies for reducing sodium intake and managing hypertension [4]. These guidelines are particularly timely as hypertension remains a critical global health challenge, significantly impacting cardiovascular morbidity and mortality [4].
Educational and Implementation Strategy
The WHO’s Department of Nutrition and Food Safety will lead the implementation of these guidelines through a coordinated approach involving multiple stakeholders [1]. The launch event will feature presentations from leading experts in nutrition and food safety, including discussions on implementation strategies and how LSSS fits within the overall sodium reduction strategy [1]. Special consideration is being given to safety concerns, particularly regarding potassium levels in these substitutes, which may affect individuals with impaired kidney function [1].
Looking Ahead
The initiative aligns with WHO’s broader goal of reducing population sodium intake by 30% by 2030 [1]. Practical implementation will include various approaches, from public health policy actions to intervention programs [1]. The guidelines are expected to particularly benefit low- and middle-income countries, where hypertension prevalence has increased significantly [4]. Success will require continued monitoring and evaluation of implementation strategies, with special attention to safety and accessibility [1].