Food Manifest 
Significant Update
Experts say replacing regular table salt with potassium-enriched low-sodium salt substitutes (LSSS) could significantly improve heart health. According to a new report, this simple dietary shift may reduce stroke risk by 14% and cardiovascular deaths by 12%, offering a low-cost alternative to medical interventions. In response, the George Institute for Global Health (GIGH) and leading health experts have urged the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Union government to promote LSSS for routine household use. These substitutes typically replace 15–30% of sodium chloride with potassium chloride.
High Salt Intake Raises Concern
At the same time, experts highlight a growing public health challenge. Indians consume 8–11 grams of salt daily — almost double the WHO and ICMR recommended limit of 5 grams. This excessive intake is strongly linked to rising cases of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, which account for a significant share of deaths in the country. Importantly, nearly 80% of sodium intake in India comes from salt added during home cooking. Therefore, experts stress that reducing salt use at the household level remains the most effective way to lower overall sodium intake and related health risks.
Evidence from Clinical Studies
Supporting this approach, clinical studies show consistent benefits of potassium-based salt substitutes. For instance, research from China reported a 14% reduction in stroke risk, while an Indian trial observed a 4.6 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure among users. Moreover, experts describe LSSS as a safe and scalable option for most adults. However, they caution that individuals with advanced kidney disease or those on specific medications should use these substitutes only under medical supervision due to the risk of elevated potassium levels.
Policy Push for Wider Adoption
Given this evidence, health specialists are calling for stronger policy action. They recommend integrating LSSS into national nutrition programmes such as school meals, ICDS schemes, public distribution systems, hospitals, and institutional canteens to encourage widespread adoption. In addition, they suggest that food manufacturers reduce sodium content in processed foods, particularly in high-salt categories such as snacks and instant mixes.
Towards National Health Goals
Finally, with India targeting a 30% reduction in population-level sodium intake by 2030, experts believe potassium-based salt substitutes could play a crucial role in achieving this goal. In turn, this shift could significantly reduce the national burden of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
Source: India Today
