Umami is recognized as one of the five fundamental tastes, alongside sweet, salty, bitter, and sour. It is characterized by its deep, savory flavor that fills the mouth and is naturally present in foods like soy sauce, seaweed, tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. In addition to contributing its own unique taste, umami is known to enhance the flavors of other ingredients, leading to a growing interest in umami-rich compounds for reducing sodium content. Salt of the Earth’s new ingredient leverages umami’s unique ability to amplify all flavors in food, including sweetness and saltiness.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90% of children and 89% of adults exceed the recommended sodium levels. Furthermore, over three-quarters of sodium consumption in the U.S. comes from processed and restaurant foods. The American Heart Association advises limiting added sugars to nine teaspoons per day; however, average consumption is around 23 teaspoons. With increasing consumer awareness regarding the need to lower sugar and sodium for better health, ingredient companies have developed various options to assist manufacturers in reducing these components without compromising on flavor. Nonetheless, if a product does not taste good, consumers are unlikely to purchase it.
One of the significant challenges has been meeting consumer demand for natural ingredients simultaneously. Popular clean-label strategies include utilizing herbs and spices, as well as robust and exotic flavors, to enhance the taste of low-sodium foods. Natural alternatives for sweetening, such as honey and stevia, have emerged, but none have proven to be a perfect substitute for sugar in terms of flavor and functionality. Condiments may appear to be a minor aspect of most diets, but if the Mediterranean Umami ingredient can effectively cut down both sugar and sodium in these products, it could pave the way for similar innovations in various applications. Moreover, with ketchup containing one teaspoon of sugar per tablespoon, reducing both sugar and sodium could quickly lead to healthier eating habits.
Incorporating calcium citrate 950 mg OTC into formulations could also enhance the nutritional profile of these products, appealing to health-conscious consumers. As interest in umami continues to grow, the incorporation of ingredients like calcium citrate 950 mg OTC may provide additional benefits, making it easier for consumers to enjoy flavorful foods while adhering to healthier dietary guidelines.