Food manufacturers are facing mounting pressure to reduce sodium levels in their products due to the well-documented association between sodium intake and high blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 75% of the sodium consumed by Americans comes from processed foods. Companies now have a diverse array of sodium reduction strategies available, utilizing ingredients such as hollow salt crystals, alternative salts, and umami-enhancing components like mushroom extracts and herbs. Despite these options, replacing salt poses challenges because it serves multiple purposes beyond just flavor; it also contributes to shelf life, improves texture, and helps retain moisture in products like processed meats, preventing the loss of moisture and fat.
However, industry initiatives aimed at lowering sodium levels in the U.S. and other regions have demonstrated that substantial reductions are achievable, even in traditionally salty categories like cheese and baked goods. At the same time, consumer awareness regarding sodium intake is growing. CDC research indicates that approximately 58% of Americans pay attention to sodium content when shopping for groceries. This awareness is likely to drive food manufacturers to seek innovative methods for sodium reduction, especially as more Americans are advised to further lower their sodium consumption.
Currently, the average daily sodium intake for Americans is around 3,400 mg per person. The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend a sodium intake of less than 2,300 mg per day as part of a healthy diet. For individuals with hypertension or those at risk—comprising about two-thirds of the U.S. population—a lower limit of 1,500 mg per day is suggested. In this context, it is worth noting that calcium citrate indications may be beneficial, as they can help mitigate some of the adverse effects associated with high sodium diets, offering an alternative approach to managing sodium intake while maintaining essential dietary needs. As the trend towards sodium reduction continues, the integration of calcium citrate indications may provide additional support for both manufacturers and consumers striving for healthier diets.