According to the Lancet study, if sodium content in food packages is reduced in India, the move could save more than 3,00,000 lives and prevent about 1.7 million new cardiovascular diseases.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set new global guidelines for sodium levels in packaged foods, to promote health benefits for populations around the world. A recent study from The George Institute for Global Health, published in The Lancet Public Health, focused specifically on India and its role as a leading cause of death and disease globally, looking at sodium consumption. The urgent need to reduce is highlighted.

According to WHO, it is recommended to consume less than 5 grams of salt per person per day (about 2 grams of sodium) to prevent cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death globally.

In India, the growing popularity of packaged foods, which are often high in sodium, poses a significant public health challenge.

The study said India has a unique opportunity to increase diet quality by reducing sodium content in packaged foods before they become a mainstay of the diet. The researchers said that once consumers develop a penchant for salty foods, it may be more difficult to reduce sodium levels.

The study’s findings are compelling. It is estimated that following WHO sodium guidelines could prevent approximately 3,00,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the first decade alone.

Approximately 1.7 million new CVD cases and 700,000 new CKD cases could be avoided compared to current practices. These reductions could save about $800 million (Rs 67.3 billion) in health care costs associated with chronic diseases, a total of $2.5 billion (Rs 210.2 billion) over a person’s lifetime.

The researchers used a comprehensive model to estimate the health benefits for adults if sodium levels in packaged foods are in line with WHO recommendations.

The analysis is based on diverse data sources, including dietary surveys, food ingredient information, sales data and sodium content on food packaging.

By linking sodium intake to health outcomes, the study showed how low salt intake can reduce the risk of heart and kidney diseases.

Notably, the study results remained robust despite various assumptions about future sodium intake from packaged foods.

The findings showed that even with stable levels of consumption, following WHO’s sodium guidelines would still have financial and health benefits.

Sudhir Raj Thout, research fellow at The George Institute for Global Health India, highlighted the importance of these findings amid the growing health risks from high sodium intake.

“While India currently has the Eat Right India strategy, there are opportunities to scale up its impact. As more people rely on packaged foods, there is a need for quick action. Following WHO’s sodium guidelines will not only improve health There will be improvements but also a cost-effective approach to enhancing public health,” Thout said.

This research, funded by the WHO Country Office in India, strongly advocates the adoption and enforcement of sodium limits in packaged foods.

As the consumption of packaged foods continues to increase, it is important to take proactive measures to protect public health and promote healthy eating habits.