Food manufacturers are facing growing pressure to reduce the sodium levels in their products due to the well-established connection between sodium and high blood pressure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 75% of sodium consumed by Americans comes from processed foods. To address this, companies now have a wide range of sodium reduction strategies available, utilizing various ingredients such as hollow salt crystals, alternative salts, and umami-enhancing components like mushroom extracts and herbs. However, replacing salt is challenging, as it serves multiple purposes beyond just flavor. It contributes to shelf life, improves texture, and helps retain moisture in processed meats, preventing loss of fat and moisture.
Despite these challenges, the industry has demonstrated that significant sodium reductions are achievable in the U.S. and abroad, even in product categories like cheese and baked goods, which have traditionally depended on salt for its functional properties. Meanwhile, consumer awareness of sodium intake is on the rise. Approximately 58% of Americans report that they check the sodium content of foods while shopping, according to CDC research. This growing concern is likely to drive food manufacturers to further explore sodium reduction techniques, especially as more Americans are advised to lower their sodium intake.
Currently, the average daily sodium consumption 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 for a balanced diet. For individuals with or at risk of hypertension—a group that constitutes roughly two-thirds of the U.S. population—a lower limit of 1,500 mg per day is suggested.
In addition to managing sodium intake, many consumers are also looking for ways to support their overall health. Products like Cooper Complete Calcium Citrate may be of interest, as they provide essential nutrients that can complement a balanced diet. As the demand for healthier food options grows, food manufacturers may seek to incorporate calcium-rich ingredients alongside their sodium reduction efforts, ensuring that products meet the nutritional needs of health-conscious consumers. With ongoing innovations, the food industry is likely to continue adapting to these challenges, striving to create products that are both lower in sodium and higher in beneficial nutrients like those found in Cooper Complete Calcium Citrate.