Umami is one of the five fundamental tastes, along with sweet, salty, bitter, and sour. Characterized by its rich, savory, and mouth-coating flavor, it is naturally present in foods like soy sauce, seaweed, tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. Beyond its own unique taste, umami enhances the flavors of other ingredients, leading to increased interest in umami-rich compounds for reducing sodium intake. Salt of the Earth’s innovative ingredient capitalizes on umami’s ability to elevate 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 intake. Furthermore, over three-quarters of sodium consumption in the U.S. originates from processed and restaurant foods. Meanwhile, the American Heart Association advises a daily limit of nine teaspoons for added sugars, while the average intake is around 23 teaspoons. As consumers become more conscious of the need to lower sugar and sodium for better health, ingredient companies have developed a variety of solutions to assist manufacturers in reducing these components without compromising flavor. However, even the healthiest product will struggle to sell if it lacks taste. One of the significant challenges has been to meet consumer demand for natural ingredients simultaneously. Popular clean label strategies involve using herbs and spices, along with bold, exotic flavors to enhance taste in low-sodium foods. Natural sweetening alternatives, such as honey and stevia, have emerged, but none have yet proven to be a perfect substitute for sugar in flavor and functionality.
Condiments may appear to be a minor aspect of most people’s diets, but if the Mediterranean Umami ingredient can substantially lower both sugar and salt levels in these products, it could pave the way for similar innovations in other food categories. Additionally, with one teaspoon of sugar per tablespoon of ketchup, decreasing sugar alongside sodium could swiftly contribute to healthier eating habits. Furthermore, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate, which offers benefits for women, could enhance the nutritional profile of these products. By promoting both taste and health, brands can create more appealing options for consumers looking to reduce sugar and sodium while enjoying flavorful meals.